Joe Schneider, 85, Williston, went to heaven on Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2010, at his home under the care of his family and hospice after a long battle with cancer.

Joe was born on Dec. 3, 1924, to John and Luella (Thue) Schneider in Gonvick, Minn. The family moved to North Dakota when he was 4 years old. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith.

Joe was raised and educated in Sanish, N.D., graduating in 1942. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1943. Joe served in England, Europe, Germany, St. Lorue and Normandy with the 175th Infantry, arriving at Normandy on D1 Day.

Joe was awarded the Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Theater Service Ribbon and Combat Infantryman Badge.

He received his honorable discharge on Jan. 15, 1946. Joe married Dolores Brenna on May 24, 1948, at the Keene First Lutheran Church. They lived in Williston all the years, where he was employed by Reep Motor in the body shop, used car sales and parts.

In 1968, he became a partner in Reeps. He sold the business and retired in 1986.

When their children were young, the family enjoyed fishing, camping, boating, water skiing and taking boat trips to McKenzie Bay.

Joe was active in bowling, square dancing, bridge and pinochle with family and friends. Joe shared his expertise of fishing, bowling and pinochle with his grandsons.

He always looked forward to the morning coffee gathering at Service Drug.

Joe was a member of the First Lutheran Church, Disabled Veterans, American Legion, Moose and Elks.

He leaves his wife of 61 years, Dolores; daughter, Deanne Erie, Mandan; son, Todd (Jurhee) Schneider, Gilbert, Ariz., and daughter, Vikki (Mark) Osborn, Williston; four grandsons, Trevor Erie, Andi Osborn, Alex Osborn and Joe Osborn; sister, Lorraine (Don) Kiwimagi, Williston; brother, George (Marion) Schneider, Gig Harbor, Wash., and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his parents; brothers, Alwin and Walter and sister, Emily.

His funeral services are at 2:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 29, 2010, at the First Lutheran Church. The Rev. Ben Loven and the Rev. Steve Anderson are officiating.

Burial is at a later date at the Veterans Cemetery, Mandan. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to the Mercy Hospice or Upper Missouri Relay for Life.

Friends are encouraged to share their condolences and memories with the family online at www.fulkersons.com.