Ernest W. Schneider, 94 of Dakota died Friday, August 7, 2009 at Medina Nursing Center in Durand. Born August 28, 1914 in Thun, Switzerland he was the son of Ernst and Frieda (Kissling) Schneider. After graduating in Switzerland he came to America and in 1934 he married Mary Fuchs who preceded him in death. Later he and Alice (Bouray) Jungen were married at Toulon, IL she also preceded him in death on January 12, 1999. Ernest was a Cheese maker for over 30 years in Southern WI and Northern IL and was employed at Deans Foods in Pecatonica. Ernie's passions were fishing and bowling. He bowled until the age of 89 and continued to fish with his sons and daughter right up to his death. He loved Swiss music and danced a polka with his daughter in May at his grandson's wedding. Spending time with his family was most important to Ernie. His face lit up around his children.

He is survived by One daughter Jeanne (Lowell) Dickman of Freeport; six sons Robert (Sonjia) Schneider of Fort Atkinson, WI, Donald Schneider of Monticello, WI, James (Heather) Schneider of Durand, Kenneth Schneider of Rockford, Michael (Teresa) Schneider of Winnebago, David Schneider of Bradley, two step sons Steven (Donna) Jungen, Thomas (Beth) Jungen both of Freeport, 26 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, both wives, one son Ernest S. Schneider, granddaughter Caryn Casey, daughter-in-law Jane, sister Alice and brother Samuel.

Visitation will be Tuesday August 11, 5pm until 8pm at Daughenbaugh Funeral Home in Dakota. Funeral service will be Wednesday 10:00 a.m. at Daughenbaugh Funeral Home with Deacon Dick Mulcahey of St. Patrick's Catholic Church Irish Grove officiating. Burial will be at the St. Patrick's Church Cemetery.

A memorial has been established in his name.

Ernie's family invites friends to extend condolences, share a memory, light a candle, or share a caring heart in his honor at www.daughenbaughfh.com