Wayne K. Schneider

Wayne Kenneth Schneider died Tuesday, January 1st, 2019.  Wayne was born in Orange, New Jersey in July, 1935, the third of seven children of Harry J. and Lillian Schneider.  He grew up in Dover, Delaware and LaGrange Park, Illinois, graduating from Lyons Township High School in 1953.  Wayne attended the University of Illinois, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Management in 1957. He was a member of Delta Sigma Pi Fraternity. Wayne met Janet Ann Bradley at the U of I during their freshman year, and they were married in 1956.

Wayne’s love of airplanes and flying began in childhood, and he knew early in life that he wanted to be a pilot.  He participated in Air Force ROTC at the U of I and upon graduation he received a 2nd Lieutenant’s commission in the United States Air Force.  He was an active duty pilot for 9 ½ years, flying F-102 fighter jets in the Air Defense Command.  Wayne left active duty in 1966 and joined the Reserves, flying with the 928th Tactical Airlift Group for 11 ½ years.  He retired from the Air Force with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in 1979.  Wayne became a pilot with American Airlines in 1966, flying out of O’Hare Airport.  He primarily flew 727’s; they were his favorite plane to fly.  Wayne retired from American Airlines in 1995 but continued to fly his own planes, owning several Cessnas over the years.

Wayne and Jan lived in the Barrington area for 50 years, in Timberlake and Barrington Hills. They began spending the winter on Sanibel Island, Florida in 1985.  Wayne enjoyed playing golf his whole life and spent many happy hours on golf courses with friends and family members.

Wayne is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Jan; sons Mark (Lisa), Randy (Elizabeth), and Steven (Liesl); and grandsons Ryan (Kelsey), Scott, Andrew, Brendan, Carson, Tyler, and Beau; and brothers Tom and Bob, and sisters Lois, Jan, and Carol.  He was preceded in death by his brother Alan.

Visitation will take place on Saturday, January 12th 2019 from 1 - 4 pm at Davenport Funeral Home in Barrington.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.