Julie Schneider

The world just lost a bit of its sparkle as we prepare to roll up the last puzzle Julie Schneider was working on. Julie passed away quietly on November 21, 2024, leaving behind a lifetime of adventurous stories and joy. Known for her never-ending curiosity and an unquenchable wanderlust, Julie made her way permanently into the hearts of those she met.

Born on March 22, 1960, in sunny Coronado, California, Julie was the lively daughter of Walter and Patricia (Schulz) Reandeau. She spent her formative years in Nebraska and Wisconsin, graduating with high honors from Sun Prairie High School in 1978. It was there she met a group of friends who would remain by her side through life’s ups and downs. Julie extended her academic journey at UW-Green Bay and later earned her Master of Library Science at UW-Madison. Julie loved books. She was a voracious reader.

Julie married the love of her life, David Schneider, on July 9, 1994, in Sun Prairie. Together they ventured through life, tackling every Sudoku and Word Jumble they could lay their hands on. Wherever their travels took them, Julie and Dave's puzzle books were always in tow.

Alongside her intellectual pursuits, Julie was an avid motorcyclist. She and Dave rode their motorcycles through the winding roads of Wisconsin, up the mountainous terrains in Colorado and throughout the United States, leaving a wind-blown trail of adventure. Julie also cherished spending time on Lake Michigan on her brother Scott's boat, embracing the waves and wind.

Her professional life was equally commendable - serving as the Director of the Medical Library at Mercy Hospital in Janesville followed by a career at the UW Madison School of Medicine. Julie infused her work with a sense of purpose and passion, much like how she approached a tricky Sudoku—methodical, patient, and always up for a challenge.

Julie enjoyed bringing her cooking talents to many a dinner table, making meals that were both a treat to the taste buds and a tribute to her vibrant personality. Her brief venture into music as a keyboardist for the band “6.4.Sunday” added yet another interesting facet to her multi-talented persona.

A lover of arts and a good laugh, Julie often found joy in cartoons. Favorites like "The Far Side" and "Pearls Before Swine" were sure to spark laughter and inspiration in her day-to-day life.

Though Julie’s life chapters have come to a close, her story will continue to be celebrated. Friends and family are invited to gather for a Celebration of Life at the Glass Nickel’s event room located at 410 E. Main Street, Sun Prairie on Saturday, December 7, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Come and share your memories of Julie with family and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to https://www.girlsrockmadison.org/give. 

Julie is survived by her loving husband David, brother Scott (Mary Ann) Reandeau and sister Jacque (Ken Spiegel) Reandeau. She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Patricia (Schulz) Reandeau. She leaves us inspired by her journey and smiling through the tears—reminded always to take on any puzzle life throws our way with unwavering enthusiasm and mischief in our hearts. Continue your journey & puzzle on, Julie.