Paul Eugene (Gene) Schneider passed away peacefully at home, February 5th 2026 surrounded by family and friends, after a lengthy battle with cancer.

Born July 27, 1952 to Paul Schneider and Ardis (Wetzel) Schneider. Raised on the family farm in Whitewater. Indiana.

A graduate of Northeastern High School's Class of 1970, he participated in 4-H, wrestling and FFA. Gene served as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force and the Air Force Reserve.

Gene enjoyed, riding horses, camping, fishing and skeet shooting at the pond he created with a friend. He loved traveling stateside and abroad.

After leaving the military Gene he was a jack of all trades including Owner/Operator of his own Semi where he was able to travel and enjoy the sites of America. He farmed with his father, becoming a member of the National Farmers Organization. He was owner and manager of his own Excavation Business, until retirement.

Gene is proceeded in death by his parents Paul and Ardis (Wetzel) Schneider.

He is survived by his loving wife Rita (Weiss) Schneider. Siblings: Barbara (John) Roll, Carol (Keith) Garard, and Lea Stigleman. Children: Craig (Abbey) Schneider, Amy Yates. Stepchildren Shawn Elsrod (Laura), Steve Elsrod (Trisha). Grandchildren: Brittney Bussinger, Dusty Schneider, Jordan Yates, Will, Sam, Payton, Paxtyn, Hailey, and Jacob Elsrod. Great Grandchildren Zavier and Haily Bussinger. Many nieces and nephews.

Gene will be remembered for his quick wit, assigning nicknames to those he and loved and for family and friends.

Services for Gene will be held at 12 noon on Tuesday February 10, 2026 at Riggle-Waltermann Mortuary with military rites performed by the Wayne County Honor Guard. Visitation will be held on Tuesday February 10, 2026, from 10am until 12pm at the funeral home.