Kathleen Schneider

Kathy (LaScola) Schneider, a woman of extraordinary kindness, generosity, and grace, passed away peacefully at home on July 11, 2025. She was 77 years old.

Kathy attended Central Catholic High School and graduated with the class of 1966. She maintained friendships from those years throughout her life— proof of the deep and lasting connections she formed with the people she loved.

She devoted her life to her family, raising her children with unwavering love and care. She had a rare gift for making people feel seen, welcomed, and cherished—and her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the comforting smell of something delicious on the stove.

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Kathy and close friends founded Bridgewood Bears, a collectible bear company that quickly became a beloved brand, known for its charm and craftsmanship. The success of the business was a reflection of her creativity and quiet determination.

A true nurturer at heart, Kathy had a deep passion for cooking and entertaining. She loved gathering people around the table and took joy in making every occasion feel special. For many years, she was a member of a gourmet club—a close-knit circle of friends who bonded over their love of food, friendship, and good conversation.

Kathy also had a remarkable talent for floral design. She joined the Country Garden Club in 2017 and quickly became a vibrant part of the community. In 2018, she was awarded Best in Show in the Horticulture division at A Way with Flowers, a Garden Club of America Flower Show. In 2022, she received the Sandra Baylor Novice Floral Design Award for her work in The Masterpiece Class of Seeds & Sprouts: Nurturing Growth. The following year, she was recognized with a Certificate of Appreciation for her beautiful, thoughtful arrangements. From 2023 to 2025, Kathy first co-chaired and then chaired the Floral Design Committee, generously sharing her time, vision, and talent.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Joseph Schneider; her children, baby Schneider and baby Liza; her parents, Anna and August LaScola; and her brother, Frank LaScola.

She is survived by her daughters, Christina and Janelle Schneider; her treasured granddaughter, Josephine; and her sister, Marilyn Laughlin.

Kathy lived a full and quietly remarkable life. Though she accomplished more than could ever be captured here, she never sought recognition—her joy was in creating, in giving, and in loving the people around her. Her legacy is not only in what she did, but in the way she lived: with humility, compassion, and an open heart.

Friends may visit Witzler-Shank-Walker Funeral Home in Perrysburg on Monday, July 21, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. and 6:00–8:00 p.m. A funeral Mass will be held at St. Rose Catholic Church on Tuesday, July 22, at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow in St. Rose Cemetery.