John Francis Schneider

John Francis Schneider

Lone Tree

John F. Schneider, 71, of Lone Tree passed away on November 15 after a heroic, strong, and hopeful battle with cancer.

A funeral mass will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Riverside on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 11 am. A Celebration of Life with family and friends will be held following the mass at Johnson County Fairgrounds Building “C’ from 2 pm until 6 pm, all are welcome.

John was born on June 3, 1954, to Elmer and Vernita (Droll) Schneider and was raised in rural Riverside. He graduated from Highland High School in 1972 and later from Kirkwood Community College.

On February 5, 1977, John married Carol (Fobian) in Riverside, Iowa. Together they raised three children in rural Lone Tree, where they built a life rooted in family, farming, and community.

John’s lifelong passions were farming and raising cattle. As a youth, he was an active member of Riverside Ramblers 4-H Club, served on the Washington County 4-H Council, and competed in state livestock judging competitions. He later became a 4-H leader in both Washington and Johnson Counties, helping to restart the Prairie Masters 4-H Club. John also served as the Johnson County 4-H & FFA Beef Superintendent and contributed to the livestock judging department. His dedication extended to serving on the Johnson County ISU Extension and Outreach Council. John was inducted into the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame in 2016.

He was involved in numerous agricultural organizations, including the American Angus Association, Ag Commodity Groups, and served as a delegate for the Johnson County Democratic Convention.

John shared his love of agriculture and livestock with many, teaching his children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and countless 4-H members the importance of animal health, care, and responsibility. Known for his patience, humor, and deep knowledge, he was most proud to pass those lessons on to his grandchildren as they began their own journeys of raising and showing livestock. He held his grandchildren closest to his heart and was always there to support their sports, dance, and every interest they pursued. John was devoted to his life as a farmer and proudly served as the family’s “barn manager” up until his final weeks.

John is survived by his wife, Carol; daughter, Jessica Schneider (Ryan Billheimer); sons, Jason (Kati) Schneider and Matt (Carrie) Schneider; and seven grandchildren, Rylan and Ashlynd Lange, and Cole, Callie, Cora, Kason, and Josi Schneider. He is also survived by his mother, Vernita Schneider; siblings, Janice (Dennis) Carr, Jim (Louella), Mike, Pat (Cindy), Ann (Dennis) Lampe, Dan and Don (Kristin). He is also survived by brothers-in-law, Ken (Linda) Fobian, Bob (Maria) Fobian, and Larry (Jean) Fobian as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.

John was preceded in death by his father, Elmer Schneider; parents-in-law John and Marlene Fobian; brother-in-law Mike Fobian; and sister-in-law Amy Schneider.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in John’s honor to Johnson County 4-H or Iowa City Hospice. To share a thought, memory or condolence with his family please visit the Gay and Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service website at www.gayandciha.com.