It is with profound sadness that we announce that Clemens Schneider passed away peacefully on December 4, 2017 surrounded by family. We were not ready to say goodbye, however, we are comforted in knowing that he is no longer suffering. We love him and will miss him so very much.
Clem was born on January 18, 1926 on his family’s farm near St. Walburg, Saskatchewan, the second of nine children. He married Mary Patychuk in June 1955, and after a few moves, they settled in Edmonton, where they built a good life and raised their family. He spent over 30 years working for Canada Post while also holding down a variety of part-time jobs, and was a Reservist in the Canadian Armed Forces.
He was always very involved in his kids’ activities and community, including coaching sports teams, calling bingos, and many other volunteer activities. Following his retirement, he drove a school bus and enjoyed travelling to many places around the world, his favourite being a road trip to Alaska.
For the first 85 years of his life, Clem had the kind of health and vigor that would be the envy of many people 20 years younger than him. Though the last seven years presented many health challenges, he faced every challenge with the same quiet dignity and strength that was characteristic of him. He was a kind, selfless, humble man who worked hard all of his life and always put his family and community ahead of his own goals and dreams. The world seems colder and dimmer without him here. He was our rock and we will all miss him until we can join him again.
Clem is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Mary (Patychuk); son, Terry (Kristi) Schneider; daughter, Brenda (Paul) Reimer; daughter, Wendy (Terry) Serink; son, Rick Schneider, and grandchildren, Lindsey (Peter) Rudzik, Andrew Reimer, William Serink and Alexandra Serink. Clem is also survived by a very large extended family.
Thank you to the staff at the Royal Alexandra Hospital, especially Doctors Markland and Pisani and the nurses on Unit 44, for everything you did to make Clem’s last days comfortable. The kindness, compassion and dedication they offered were very much appreciated.
Cremation has occurred and to honour Clem’s wishes, there will be no funeral service.
A Celebration of Clem’s Life will be held at the Beverly Heights Community Hall, 4209 – 111 Avenue, in Edmonton on January 13, 2018 from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. Memorial donations may be made to the Kidney Foundation of Canada.