Ellis L. Schneider

~Ellis L. Schneider, 84, went home to be with Jesus on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2015, following a day surrounded by family. Ellis was born Sept. 2, 1931 to Walter "Bush" & Vera (Ogle) Schneider. He was born and raised on the family wheat farm nine miles northeast of Waterville, WA. He was the oldest of four children. He attended Waterville Schools, graduating in 1950, as Salutatorian. He enjoyed raising Duroc pigs and Shorthorn cattle as 4-H and FFA projects. He continued raising cattle for several years. After high school graduation, he took over the wheat farm after his father was injured in a farming accident. On October 1, 1955, Ellis married the love of his life, Lucille. They recently celebrated their 60th anniversary. They have lived on the family farm that Ellis' grandfather built in 1889. There. they welcomed four children, Julia, Debra, Tony, and Polly. His family was his pride and joy and he instilled in them a dedicated work ethic, love of animals, the land and family. He had a soft spot for all children and was always excited to see his grandkids and great-grandkids. They brought true joy to his life. Family reunions were special times. Ellis continued to farm for the next 57 years, loving the land and the wheat that he grew while cherishing each changing season. Although he retired in 2007, he missed farming enough to start driving tractor again for the next six years. Anyone familiar with Ellis knew his unique personality. He "never met a stranger" and befriended anyone. His sense of humor allowed everyone to feel right at home. Ellis loved youth and livestock and was passionate about the 4-H program. In addition to his own four kids, it was very common to find additional youth with Ellis as he packed them around the state to various 4-H events. He was inducted into the WA State 4-H Hall of Fame in 2002. When his father was injured, Ellis took over his dad's position as an NCW Fairboard member. He served as sheep superintendant, helped run the livestock sale and supported all things youth and fair. He held countless positions during his years on the board. He continued to serve in this capacity for the past 64 years. Many people knew him as "Mr. Fair". Ellis devoted his life to volunteering. He was a 63-year 4-H leader and 64-year NCW Fairboard member. He served on the United Lutheran Church Council, Do. Co. Hospital Board, Do. Co. Conservation District, WA State Wheat Growers, Do. Co. Board of Education, Tri-County Board of Education, WA State 4-H Fairboard, WA State Fairs Association, Do. Co. 4-H Leader's Council and Club Leader of Douglas Livestock 4-H Club. ~Ellis is survived by his wife, Lucille; son, Tony Schneider; daughters, Julia (Bob) Goodman, Debra Schneider (Vern Stocker), Polly (Bill) Schneider; sister, Esther McFarland; brother, Howard Schneider; grandsons, Jason (Carly) and Travis (Kelsey) Bartlett, Brett, Justin, Willy, and Wesley Schneider and great-grandkids; McKenzi, Gracie, Cole and Lainee Bartlett, and Michael, Zach and Jade Schneider. He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter, Mary Jo and sister, Thelma Floener. ~A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov 14, 2015, at the United Lutheran Church in Waterville, followed by a celebration in the Community Hall at the NCW Fairgrounds. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 13, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions can be made in Ellis' name to "Friends of the Fair" c/o NCW Fair or WA State 4-H Foundation earmarked WA State 4-H Fair. Arrangements are by Telford's Chapel of the Valley, East Wenatchee.

Ellis L. Schneider

September 2, 1931 - November 7, 2015