James F. Schneider

James "Jim" Franz Schneider, PhD, age 77, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025. A devoted husband, father, scholar, and friend, Jim lived a life marked by quiet strength, deep intellect, and unwavering faith.

Born on August 18, 1947, in Le Mars, Iowa, Jim grew up with a love for the land and a curiosity that would guide his lifelong pursuit of knowledge. He graduated from Le Mars High School before attending Iowa State University (ISU) in Ames, where he earned his Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Doctorate degrees in Animal Genetics and Statistics. His academic journey laid the foundation for a distinguished career that blended science with service.

Jim began his professional life as an assistant professor at ISU. His passion for agriculture—especially swine genetics—led him into the private sector before culminating in his final role at the USDA Animal Research facility in Hastings, Nebraska. There, he found great fulfillment conducting swine research.

Throughout his career, Jim received numerous accolades recognizing his contributions to animal science and agriculture. He was honored with the National Swine Improvement Federation’s Charles Stanislav Memorial Distinguished Award and held leadership roles in several academic societies. He served as President of Alpha Zeta agricultural honor society and was a member of Phi Kappa Phi and ISU’s Cardinal Key recognition society. His involvement with Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity—as Noble Ruler, treasurer, and alumni advisor—fostered lifelong friendships that enriched every chapter of his life.

Jim’s commitment to community extended beyond academia. He served in various local organizations and was an active member of the Onalaska United Methodist Church, where he held multiple leadership positions. A deeply spiritual man who read the Bible through several times, Jim lived his faith quietly but profoundly—never speaking ill of others and always choosing kindness over complaint.

In 2007, Jim received the Ontario Angler Award for catching the largest smallmouth bass—a testament to both his patience and joy for nature. He had many passions: cultivating his yard with a farmer’s pride; building intricate garden railroads; reading science fiction; watching movies in his home theater; playing bridge; and performing on the baritone saxophone with DaCapo Concert Band, La Crosse City Band, and the Grumpy Old Men ensemble. One of his most cherished traditions was reuniting with his high school jazz band to perform annually at Ice Cream Days in Le Mars. He was a loyal ISU and Green Bay Packers fan.

Travel was another cornerstone of Jim’s life. With Sheri by his side—his beloved wife of 56 years—they made it their mission to show their daughters all 48 contiguous states through camping adventures filled with discovery and laughter. Jim and Sheri traveled the world as Jim presented scientific papers to global audiences in both academic and industry settings.

Jim is survived by his loving wife Sheri (Jackowell); daughters Melanie Schneider of Verona, WI; Cindy Giacovelli and partner Todd Madsen of Cloquet, MN; siblings Sheryl Schneider of Guatemala City, Guatemala; Kris (Jim) Cooper of Pine, CO; John (Carol) Schneider of Le Mars, IA; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Roger and Sally Stutsman of Hills, IA; as well as many nieces and nephews including Jessica (Mike) Stutsman and child Moss; Sebastian (Carolina) Cabrera Schneider; Jose Nicholas (Emily) Cabrera-Schneider and children Ivan and Roque; Ana Silvia Cabrera Schneider; Doug Jones; Aly (Wyatt) McGinley-Harrington and children Mickey and Wren; Jo Ellen Schneider Harvey and children Andrew, Jonathon, and Mathias; Andrew (Brooke) Schneider and children Coraline and Nolan James. He also leaves behind several cousins including special cousin Doug (Carol) Troxel of Brea, CA. And his beloved Maine Coon cat, Louie.

He was preceded in death by his parents Franz and Sylvia Schneider; father and mother-in-law Carl and Agnes Jackowell; brother-in-law Leonel Cabrera; and nephew Michael Stutsman.

Jim approached life as a journey—one without regret—and met every twist in the road with resilience. Though words were few from him, when he spoke people listened. His dry wit brought smiles to those around him, while his thoughtful presence offered comfort without demand. He took immense pride in the values he passed on to his daughters: integrity, curiosity, fairness, hard work—and above all—a love for learning.

Per Jim’s request there will be no funeral, a private gathering will be held at a later date in Iowa. Memorials may be directed in Jim’s name to Gundersen Medical Foundation-Research, Onalaska United Methodist Church, and Iowa State University Foundation-Alpha Gamma Rho Education Foundation Scholarship.

Special thanks to Gundersen Health - 5th Floor Behavioral Health staff, Ravenwood Memory Care staff, and especially caregiver Silas Reiman for providing Jim with such good care.

So when that time shall come to me

   And I must say farewell,

Let no one weep because I go

   In answer to that knell.

My friends will miss me when I’m gone,-

   But parting is for men,

So live for God and die in faith,

   And we shall meet again. Geo. O. Strickler

May Jim’s memory bring peace to those who loved him.