Evelyn Maxine Schneider of Wapakoneta, OH has gone home, leaving behind a circle of those who loved her.
These are the contours of a life that meant a great deal to many.
Evelyn held deeply to the Catholic faith — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew her best.
Belief, when lived, becomes a kind of inheritance.
Evelyn M. Schneider, 92, of Botkins, passed away peacefully at 3:16 a.m. on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at Vancrest of St. Marys. Born on April 10, 1934, in St. Marys, she was the daughter of Sylvanus and Pearl (Fox) Kruse. Evelyn grew up with a strong sense of faith, family, and community-values that shaped her entire life. Evelyn was a proud 1952 graduate of St. Marys Memorial High School.
She was preceded in death by her husband, John A. Schneider; her parents; her sister Betty (Paul, deceased) Bradford, and her brother Norman (Wavalene, deceased) Kruse.
Evelyn is survived by her children: Wayne (Connie) Schneider of Botkins; Terry (Terri) Schneider of Bellefontaine; Cheryl Bellamy of Wapakoneta; Timothy (Marlaine) Schneider of Botkins; and Rick (Michelle) Schneider of Botkins. She leaves behind nine grandchildren-Ryan (Kara), Shawn (Andrea), Jim (Amanda), Gina, Courtney, Olivia, Lindsey (Kyle) Barta, Carrie (Jeff) Siegrist, and Tyler (Emily)-and thirteen great grandchildren who brought her endless pride and joy.
In 1953, she married John, the love of her life. Together they built a home filled with warmth, hard work, and devotion. Their marriage, which lasted until John's passing in 2000, was a partnership rooted in deep affection and shared purpose.
Evelyn dedicated her life to caring for her family, raising five children who remained the center of her world. She later worked as an Avon Representative and spent many years employed at Bank One in Botkins before retiring from First National Bank of New Bremen. Known for her friendly smile and steady presence, she formed lasting connections with coworkers and customers alike. In her final months at Vancrest, Evelyn formed new friendships with caregivers that brought her comfort and companionship when she needed it most.
A faithful member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Botkins, Evelyn worked in the parish office for many years, assisting with the parish offering. Her quiet service reflected her humble spirit and her deep commitment to her parish community.
Nothing brought Evelyn more joy than time spent with her family. She cherished every moment with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren-whether gathered around a table, celebrating milestones, or simply enjoying one another's company. Her family will forever remember her gentle strength, her kindness, and the way she made each of them feel deeply loved.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Botkins, with Fr. Sean Wilson officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Friends and family may call from 4–8 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, and from 9–9:45 a.m. on Friday at Eley Funeral Home & Crematory in Wapakoneta.
Memorial contributions may be made to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church or Grand Lake Hospice. Condolences may be expressed at www.eleyfuneralhomeandcrematory.com.
