Ralph Saul Schneider

Ralph S. Schneider, 91, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2020 at Capitol Lakes Terraces in Madison, Wisconsin. He is survived by his children, Rob and Jane, and nephew, Charley. He was preceded in death by parents, Bob and Bertie Schneider, and brother, Dick. He grew up in Minneapolis and graduated from St. Thomas Academy in 1946. He subsequently attended the University of Minnesota, where he was a member of Phi Epsilon Pi, and earned a BBA degree in 1950. After serving four years in the Air Force during and after the Korean War, he entered the University of Minnesota Law School. Graduating in 1957, he was both first in his class and president of the Minnesota Law Review. He practiced business law in Minneapolis for many years, specializing in tax and real estate. Early in his career, he found time to become a CPA to complement his tax law expertise. In 1960, he was appointed Special Assistant Attorney General under then Attorney General Walter F. Mondale to work on a matter involving management of the Sister Kenny Foundation. Later in his career, he provided legal counsel in connection with several high-profile real estate projects. He also enjoyed volunteering his time to serve as a municipal conciliation/small claims court referee. A lawyer’s lawyer, his peers often sought to “pick his brain.” As a youngster, he loved spending summers at Camp Horseshoe in Wisconsin, eventually becoming a camp counselor. He also enjoyed fishing and, while quite young, developed an abiding passion for reading newspapers. As an adult, he developed an interest in running, often covering lengthy paths around the Minneapolis chain of lakes. He also enjoyed boating, whether water-skiing behind his speedboat or sailing with friends. In retirement, he became an avid and skilled bridge player, eventually reaching the rank of Life Master, and loved attending the Minnesota Opera. A private ash scattering ceremony will be held at a future date. Memorials preferred to The Minnesota Opera, Agrace Hospice, Capitol Lakes Foundation, or the University of Minnesota Law School Fund. Special thanks to his caregivers at Capitol Lakes Terraces and Agrace Hospice.