William L. Schneider

William �Bill� Louis Schneider, 83, died in his sleep on January 3, 2009. A long time resident of Mont Vernon, NH and Andover, MA, Bill lived at Granite Ledges in Concord, NH for the last 2 � years. His loving wife, Helen Sedgwick �Sedgie� Schneider, predeceased him. He was born in Chicago, IL, on January 13, 1925, the son of Daniel Charles and Gertrude Bertha (Schwartzkopf) Schneider. After high school he joined the Army and served on a B-17 Bomber until the conclusion of World War II. Returning to Chicago, Bill graduated from Northwestern University with studies in music and art. In 1949 Bill accepted a position as music professor at Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts. During his tenure at Phillips he conducted the chorus, string orchestra, and small ensembles, taught violin to countless students, and was the co-director of many musical stage productions. Following his teaching career he retired to his beloved summer community of Mont Vernon, NH. Bill stayed busy teaching woodcarving to many adults and children in his home. He volunteered for the Hillsboro County 4-H working with seven whittling groups, and in 1985 he represented NH at the Salute to Excellence ceremony in Chevy Chase, MD honoring 4-H Volunteers from around the country. Bill served on the Mont Vernon School Board and directed the choir at the Mont Vernon Congregational Church. In 1987 Bill and Sedgie organized the annual Community Messiah Sing at the Mont Vernon Congregational Church, which Bill conducted for many years. Whenever possible, Bill enjoyed quiet time with his fishing rod. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, John and Patricia Schneider of Warren, RI, and by his daughter and son-in-law, Beth and Andy Ditkoff of Londonderry, NH. He has two loving grandchildren, Sarah and Matt Ditkoff. A memorial service will be held at the Mont Vernon Congregational Church, 4 South Main Street, Mont Vernon, NH on April 4, 2009 at 11 AM. Contributions in his memory may be made to the N.H. Audubon, 84 Silk Farm Road, Concord, NH 03301. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Homestead at Granite Ledges in Concord for the excellent care they gave to Bill.