Collin Schneider

29 years ago, the most incredible human being, Collin Michael Schneider, came into our lives. Today it is with unbelievably heavy hearts we share, that on Saturday May 23rd, his beautiful spirit left this earth.

While we want to recognize all of the people who love Collin, who are survived by him and who are left to carry this unbearable void he left behind, we want this moment to be about Collin, and him alone. So, if your heart is aching, you’re imagining his laughter, his beautiful smile or soul touching hugs…if you’re reflecting upon his incredibly giving spirit, or perhaps his innate ability to pull you out of the deepest funk, then know our hearts are grieving for you also.

From a young age, Collin was incredibly smart, sensitive, talented, witty, and gifted in so many different ways. He picked up the guitar at a young age, in awe of watching his father play, sparking a love affair with music that lasted his lifetime. Collin played in a manner that would mesmerize anyone he allowed to listen. No lessons, no sheet music, simply listening to a song over and over, wanting to hear it come from his own hands, his own guitar. Collin loved his time on the drums and secretly taught himself a little piano.

Despite his incredible talent, you only heard Collin play if you were one of the lucky ones he entrusted that gift too. Collin was always very private, never wanting to gloat, and certainly never giving himself the credit he was due. You see, our son was a very passionate yet guarded soul and he held things very close to his chest. He guarded his heart closely, yet if you were lucky enough to be in Collin’s circle, you know just what it means to be loved by him, and in turn, I hope that helps you remember how truly special you must be!

Despite whether you spoke last week or last year, Collin’s love held no timeline. If he loved you, no distance or time would ever change that. This, does not change that!

Collin’s love for the outdoors ran deep. Spending time at the river, camping, hiking, whether with his mom, close friends, or even alone…being one with nature was when he found true peace.

Collin also had a passion for fitness which started at a young age, working out with his mom, and later using it as a catalyst in his life to overcome so many things. Sharing that passion with others, relishing in their successes, we pray that legacy continues.

Collin’s love for animals, and theirs for him, despite his allergies, was beautiful to watch. His connection with them was magical, quiet, and undeniable. To say he was loved by all is an understatement.

We could go on speaking for hours, even days, about how beautiful our son is…not only in the flesh, but in spirit, yet somehow I don’t think words could ever give him the honor and recognition Collin truly deserves. So instead we will share a few of his last words that he left us all: “Love hard. Treat yourself good and make some memories. There’s a whole world out there just waiting to be seen.”

Collin, our lives will forever be changed by having known you, and by the void your loss creates. You calling us mom and dad was our greatest gift, honor, and the highest title we could ever receive.

Rest easy our dear sweet boy. We know God is holding you close, until it is our time to follow you home. We all promise to honor you, your memory, and continue to protect you every way possible, doing our best to make you proud. Know that you are already so deeply missed and loved by many!
May God bless you and keep you. May He shine His face upon you. Until we meet again.

In loving memory of our time with you. 3/12/97 - 5/23/26 not nearly long enough.

A small memorial for Collin will be held at the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas in Arlee, MT on Sunday June 14th at 11a.m. Please reach out to Wendy with any questions.

A celebration of life will also be held later this summer or early fall once a bench has been made and placed , commemorating Collin’s memory.

If anyone wants to help or participate in building the bench or obtaining permission from the Missoula Fish and Wildlife, in order to place the bench on their land, please reach out, any help is appreciated.