Richard Lee Schnell, 88, Noble

Richard Lee Schnell, 88, of Noble, IL, passed away Sunday, September 21, 2025 at Richland Nursing and Rehab in Olney, IL.

Richard was born October 6, 1936 in Mattoon, IL to parents, Emery and Irma Nadine (Fuller) Schnell. He married Bonita Worrell on December 21, 1955 in Noble, IL., she survives.

Richard served in the United States Army from January 3, 1961 to December 17, 1962. He also worked for the Illinois Dept of Transportation for 30 years. He was a hardworking man that instilled those ethics into his children.

There wasn’t anything that he couldn’t do, he was a master craftsman and outdoorsman. He made miniature replicas of heavy equipment, like tractors and loaders, out of wood and gave them away as gifts. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and mowing his yard, something he was very proud of. He also enjoyed riding his Harley when he was able to.

Richard was known for his love of jellybeans. He enjoyed giving them away to grandchildren and receiving them from others.

Richard loved spoiling his many grandchildren and they will remember him for his sensitivity and sense of humor.

Richard is survived by his wife, Bonita Schnell of Noble; children, Karla (Dave) Reed of Ramsey, IL; Roger (Lorna’) Schnell of Henderson, KY; Kathy (Thomas) Lynch of Clay City, IL; Brian (Joe Dandurand) Schnell of Wichita, KS; and Karen (Bill) Midgett of Oblong, IL; 11 grandchildren, several great grandchildren and great great grandchildren; brother, Lawrence “Butch” (Barbara) Schnell of Noble; and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter, Denise Schnell; and infant brother, Emery Eugene Schnell.

Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home in Olney has been entrusted with arrangements.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home, Olney.

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home, Olney.

Interment will follow at Greenhill Cemetery, Noble, IL. with full Military Rites to be performed at the graveside.

Memorials can be made to Carle Center for Philanthropy (Carle Hospice – Olney).