Robert J. Schneider

Engineer, pilot had many interests. Robert J. Schneider, 58, of Washington, died Tuesday, May 29, 2007, in Washington Hospital, following a lengthy illness. He was born April 27, 1949, in Scenery Hill, a son of Robert and Doreen McCardle Schneider. Mr. Schneider was a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, where he majored in biology and sociology. He later received a master's degree in mechanical engineering from West Virginia University. Mr. Schneider was employed as a mechanical engineer for 10 years at the Bettis Atomic Energy Plant in West Mifflin. He was an avid reader who enjoyed buying and selling vintage World War II airplane and tank models. Mr. Schneider was a pilot and enjoyed making things grow in his garden. He mastered bread-making the old-fashioned way and was a great cook, a skill he acquired from his mother. He also enjoyed building and working on computers. On August 12, 1988, he married Janet Tucci, who survives. Mr. Schneider was a devoted husband who enjoyed his home, traveling and going to the theater with his wife and living life to its fullest. Surviving are a brother, Mark C. Schneider of Washington; an aunt, Joan McAnallen of Washington; an uncle, Dr. Stanley (Alma) Rydbom of Tacoma, Wash.; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. His devoted caregiver was Natalie Leech. Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday in William G. Neal Funeral Homes Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington, where a blessing service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Friday, June 1. Entombment will be in the Garden Mausoleum in Washington Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Arbor Society, Muscular Dystrophy Association or to a charity of the donor's choice.