Obituary
The world shifted on September 24, 2023, as we said goodbye to our beloved Michael Charles Schneider. A husband, father, grandfather, son, son-in-law, brother, uncle, brother in-law, Godfather, cousin, and friend - Michael will be sorely missed by many.
Michael found serenity in the Northwoods, settling into his family home on Oneida Lake in Harshaw, enjoying coffee on the patio with his wife, Margaret, listening to the loons and watching the eagles fly above. He relished in hunting & musky fishing, but his heart truly soared during the moments spent with each of his grandchildren, Luke (8), Gianna (3), and Porter (9-months). Their lives were sprinkled with his goofy humor, his ceaseless readiness to play, and his vast knowledge of obscure topics.
Married to Margaret (Rostagno) for 42 years, they raised two wonderful daughters, Rostonia Thilmany (Christian) and Katelynn Goss (Kyle). Michael’s presence was a pillar of strength for both the immediate and extended family. His dependability was unmatched, always there when someone needed a hand or simply his comforting presence. As we move forward, his void will be felt, yet the lessons of dedication, love, and unwavering support he demonstrated will guide us in the moments we need him most.
He is preceded in death by his parents Charles & LaVerne Schneider, father-in-law William Rostagno, sister-in-law Patricia Rutlin, niece Patricia Emslie. Survived by his sister Sue (Tom) Sweitzer, mother-in-law Lillian Rostagno, sister in-laws Annette (Paul) Gahlman, Jill (Ron) Dillman, Beth (Mike) Janke, brother-in-laws Jeff Rostagno, Joe (Wendy) Rostagno, Mark (Pam) Rostagno, Rick Rutlin, nieces Lucy (Ryan), Sarah (Jon), Emily (Tyler), Paige (Geremy), Lily (Alex), Emmy, nephews Scott, Bryce, Garret (Lauren), Marshall, Alex, Kolton (Kylie) and many great- nieces and nephews, cousins and wonderful friends.
Michael was a devoted Patriot, proud to be an American and grateful to the Troops who made our freedoms possible. He was humbled to accompany his father on The Honor Flight and spoke of the experience proudly ever since. He was a lifelong member of the ILYA Bilge Pullers and a big fan of the Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Brewers. As a tribute in his final days, Michael’s children reached out to former Green Bay Packers Quarterback, Mr. Brett Favre himself, who put together a beautiful, genuine, inspirational message for Michael. Watch that here.
The family suggests donations in Michael’s name to the following foundations: Gary Sinise Foundation or Howard Young Foundation/Seasons of Life Hospice House, P.O. Box 10, Minocqua, WI 54548.