Fred Walter Schnell

SCHNELL Fred Walter Schnell, 92, of Rochester, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 3, 2018 at Zumbrota Health Services. Fred was born August 15, 1925 in Eyota, MN to Fred Schnell Sr. and Alvina (Frye) Schnell. He was a graduate of Eyota public schools. Fred was a veteran, proudly serving his country in the U.S. Army. On March 11, 1950, Fred married Mary Jean Reuter. He spent 40 years in plumbing and heating, working first for Barry Plumbing, owning and running Schnell Heating and Plumbing for 25 years before retiring from Himec Mechanical. He was a member of St. Paul's United Church of Christ and a member of the American Legion Post in Rochester. Fred enjoyed fishing, gardening, camping, dancing and attending grandchildren's sporting events. Fred is survived by his children, Cynthia (Don) DeBlieck of Zumbrota, Mark (Julie) Schnell of Rochester; grandchildren, Chris (Katie) Walters, Kerri (Danny) Pacholke, Brandon (Briana) Walters, Bryan (Rachel) Schnell, Tyler (Elle) Walters; 11 great-grandchildren; sister, Arlene Rohde and dear friend, Sheri Wussaw. Fred was preceded in death by his loving wife, Mary Jean; brother, Ray Schnell; sisters, Bertha and Beatrice and by his parents. A funeral service will be held Friday, April 6, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul's United Church of Christ, 12941 County 9 Rd., Eyota, MN 55934. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. The Rev. Jean Boese and The Rev. Mark Woodward will be officiating with burial at Oak Grove Cemetery in Eyota. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com