Randy Martin Schneider
Shine on you crazy diamond.
- Pink Floyd
Obituary
Randy Martin Schneider, 50, passed away unexpectedly on April 13, 2026. Randy was the kind of person who made an impact wherever he went. He had a natural ability to connect with people, make them feel welcome, and bring energy to every room. Whether you knew him for years or had just met him, Randy had a way of making you feel like you belonged.
He grew up in the Pacific Northwest and graduated from Peninsula High School in 1994, where he was a dedicated athlete, playing competitive soccer for many years and finishing his high school career on the football field and the pitch. He went on to attend Washington State University, graduating in 1999 with a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts. While at WSU, Randy was a member of Theta Chi and served as Social Chair, where he did what came naturally to him, bringing people together and creating lasting connections.
Randy’s career path reflected both his work ethic and his desire to connect with others. He worked in sales early in his career before moving into residential construction, eventually running his own business, All Time Tile. Later, he followed a calling to education, earning his teaching certification and a Master of Education from the University of Washington Tacoma.
Randy went on to teach middle school science at Chief Leschi and in the Fife and Tacoma school districts, where he built strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues alike. He had a gift for meeting kids where they were and making learning engaging, hands-on, and connected to the real world. He encouraged curiosity, supported students as individuals, and created a classroom where they felt both challenged and supported. He was respected by his peers and took an active role in his school community, collaborating with colleagues and supporting students and families beyond the classroom. Many of his students will remember him not just for what he taught, but for how he made them feel
More than anything, Randy was a devoted father. His daughter, Alice, was the center of his world. He loved spending time with her, supporting her, and being fully present in her life. He was also a beloved son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. He had a special way of connecting with his nieces and nephews, as well as the next generation of family and friends, always taking the time to talk, listen, and make them feel important.
Randy loved music and lived life with energy and curiosity. He enjoyed concerts, traveling, and hiking, including summiting Mount Rainier. He was someone who showed up fully and authentically and left a lasting impression on the people around him.
He is survived by his daughter, Alice; his mother, Susan Schneider; his sisters, Leigh (Scott) Sutherland and Traci (Joe) Kuster; and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him deeply. He was preceded in death by his beloved father, David Martin Schneider.
Randy’s life will be celebrated in the days ahead. In the meantime, family and friends are invited to share memories, photos, and stories on his online tribute page.
Randy will be remembered for the way he made people feel, the connections he built, and the love he gave so freely.
A celebration of Randy’s life will be held on Saturday, June 13 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at the Gig Harbor Vintage Aero Museum.
Welcome
There are people who pass through your life, and then there are people who become part of it. Randy was part of it.
He was a force. He could walk into a room and change it without trying. You felt it right away. He made people feel welcome, seen, and loved. He could talk to anyone, connect people who had no business knowing each other, and make it all feel easy. You didn’t have to try around Randy. You just belonged. And, you were destined to have the time of your life.
More than anything, Randy loved his people. His family meant everything to him, and being Alice’s dad was the most important part of his life. The way he showed up for her...so steady, proud, and all in...that’s who he was at his core.
This space holds onto that. For Alice. For family. For all of the friends whose lives were better because Randy was in it. It's a place for the stories, the memories, the photos, the music, and the pieces of Randy that live on in all of us.
There is no right way to participate. Whether you share photos, leave a note, tell a story, read what others have shared, or simply spend a moment remembering Randy, you are welcome here.
Gallery
Memory wall
Post a message or share your memories and photos.
May 21, 2026
Though only a student of his back at Backer middle school. I still had loads of amazing memories with the guy. He was so impactful that I still remember him from 7-8th grade all the way to now my junior year of high school. I always remember the fun we had in his class and how he’d put on World Cup matches in class. And how he’d would have let us teach the class for a day. He will always has an impact in my life for being one of my favorite teachers and human beings. May his family and friends be safe and okay with his passing. As well his daughter as I only could wish the best for her. As I could tell from the amount of times he’d bring her up in class and how proud he was of her. May he rest in peace🙏
May 21, 2026
I loved Mr Schneider, he was always a vibe in the class room. He was super funny, kind, and understanding of people's situations. He had the most patience in the class room. He was by far one of my favorite middle school teachers.
April 27, 2026
When I think of Randy it is with memories of the Shoreliners, working holiday weekends at the Shoreline to help Neville out during the really busy times. I see Randy’s ready smile, the glint in his eyes, mischievousness and his willingness to pitch in and help. Randy was one of several ‘big brothers’ Analisa and Carrianne had during their younger years. I’m sure you, your dad and Neville are all raising a glass together wherever you are.
April 25, 2026
Dear Randy,
I think the reason that I’m finding it so hard to write about you in the past tense is because you were such a fiercely present person. You enthusiastically loved music and nature, and your passion was contagious. You loved your friends and family with your whole heart and an unwavering loyalty. But- most of all - you loved being Alice’s dad (and we’re really good at it)! I smile at the memory of Alice following you around the yard, as you taught her the value of tending to a garden through each stage of life. I promise to be one of the many people in Alice‘s life to keep these and so many other memories alive. And I know that you will walk beside her through all seasons of her life, in ways that cannot be seen or fully understood, but will surely be felt.Rock on, Randy. XO
I think the reason that I’m finding it so hard to write about you in the past tense is because you were such a fiercely present person. You enthusiastically loved music and nature, and your passion was contagious. You loved your friends and family with your whole heart and an unwavering loyalty. But- most of all - you loved being Alice’s dad (and we’re really good at it)! I smile at the memory of Alice following you around the yard, as you taught her the value of tending to a garden through each stage of life. I promise to be one of the many people in Alice‘s life to keep these and so many other memories alive. And I know that you will walk beside her through all seasons of her life, in ways that cannot be seen or fully understood, but will surely be felt.Rock on, Randy. XO
April 23, 2026
My brother was one of those rare people who seemed to be everyone’s friend. He was the life of the party, someone you could always count on, and the person friends and family gravitated toward. At 50, he had already packed more living into his life than most people ever do. He loved music, the outdoors, hiking, sports, long conversations, and being surrounded by people — especially his daughter, his friends, and his family.
We were only a year apart in school, so he was my protective big brother. He always called me Bird and teased me like big brothers do, but always with love and he made sure I felt included when it counted. As we got older, that protection turned into an easy, genuine friendship. Going to WSU together gave us some unforgettable memories and plenty of stories that still make me laugh.
Family was everything to him, and my kids were lucky to experience that in the best ways. He never missed a chance to show up — cheering at baseball games, teaching them how to play poker, or taking them to Titlow Beach for a “science lesson” when schools were closed during Covid. He jumped with them off the Treasure Island bridge, took them boating, and put on a show every Fourth of July. The memories feel endless, and I’m so grateful my kids had such a fun, present, and adventurous uncle who made them feel brave, included, and loved.
He lived fully, laughed often, and brought people together wherever he went. I’m so grateful to have grown up with him and I'm proud to call him my big brother. His spirit lives on in the music, the stories, the adventures, and all the moments that remind us to show up for one another and have a little fun while we’re here.
We were only a year apart in school, so he was my protective big brother. He always called me Bird and teased me like big brothers do, but always with love and he made sure I felt included when it counted. As we got older, that protection turned into an easy, genuine friendship. Going to WSU together gave us some unforgettable memories and plenty of stories that still make me laugh.
Family was everything to him, and my kids were lucky to experience that in the best ways. He never missed a chance to show up — cheering at baseball games, teaching them how to play poker, or taking them to Titlow Beach for a “science lesson” when schools were closed during Covid. He jumped with them off the Treasure Island bridge, took them boating, and put on a show every Fourth of July. The memories feel endless, and I’m so grateful my kids had such a fun, present, and adventurous uncle who made them feel brave, included, and loved.
He lived fully, laughed often, and brought people together wherever he went. I’m so grateful to have grown up with him and I'm proud to call him my big brother. His spirit lives on in the music, the stories, the adventures, and all the moments that remind us to show up for one another and have a little fun while we’re here.
April 23, 2026
Neighbor. Teammate. Homie. Love hearing all these memories. I know we've all got so many great ones! Haven't connected as much recently, but always a blast when we ran into each other. Gonna miss adding to the list, but lucky to have the ones we have! From sledding the hill, little league, HS footy, Sasquatch Festival, Halloween parties, to TTown and Case Inlet livin... Gonna miss your infectious grooves!
April 20, 2026
Randy, you had a way of making everything feel okay. From high school hallways to pandemic walks, you made a lasting impression on me. You were a bright spot. I’m so grateful for those vivid memories. Sending love to your family and all who knew you.
April 20, 2026
We met Randy through our daughters when they were in elementary school. Charlotte and Alice quickly became two peas in a pod—truly the best of friends—and through them, our lives became intertwined in the most meaningful way.
Charlotte spent many sleepovers at Randy’s house over the years, and after each one, I’d always ask what they had been up to. The answer was never simple—it was always an adventure. There were Bake Off competitions where the girls took on Randy, dance-offs in the living room, splashing in the water, searching for shells, and jumping off the dock. Every visit was filled with laughter, creativity, and joy. Randy would send photos to my husband and me during those sleepovers so we could share in the fun, which I loved.
One thing we noticed immediately upon meeting Randy was how deeply he showed up for his daughter. Every game, every event—he was there. He would bring Alice to Charlotte’s soccer games and never once hesitated when the girls immediately made plans for afterward. Whether it was pizza, ice cream, or some new adventure, he was always ready to take them, always saying yes with a smile.
Randy was so kind to Charlotte. He treated her like one of his own, and I will always be grateful for the way he welcomed her into his home and into his world.
Thank you, Randy, for all the sideline conversations and drop off/pick up chats, for your generosity, and for the joy you brought into my and your daughter's lives. You will be deeply missed by many.
April 20, 2026
Randy was full of enthusiasm for life and always made you feel like he was genuinely happy to see you. My favorite memory of Randy is riding around with him in someone's car (1993?), singing Jane's Addiction at the top of our lungs. We both knew every word of every song on Ritual de lo Habitual by heart. My kids and I listened to that album on the way back from the ocean this past weekend, and I told them it was for an old high school friend who left his friends and family too soon. Rock on, Randy.
April 20, 2026
Randy is my cousin, one of my first and constant friends. We grew up attending the same schools, shared holidays, milestones, vacations, beach life together. Since hearing the news, I’ve found myself trying to replay a lifetime—combing through photos, connecting with friends and family, chasing every memory. It’s impossible to hold it all. The ones that keep rising to the surface though are the simplest moments—the times he made me laugh. I was endlessly entertained by him, loved egging him on, and he ALWAYS delivered. And when I needed someone, whether I knew it or not, he was there.
We both lived in Seattle in our twenties. I still remember a voicemail he left me:
“Daaaaaaaaaarc—Randall, what’s up? I’m going down to the beach this weekend. I’ll pick you up if you want to go. It's gonna be lawn dart weather and, dammit… it’s Allyn Days. Call me.”
I laughed so hard, replayed it so many times—I can still hear it vividly more than 20 years later.
Randy eventually moved back closer to home, and I followed a few years later. Those first months were tough—convinced I’d made a huge mistake and I was miserable. Somehow he got wind of it, because, out of the blue, I got a text from him: “I just heard you moved to Stadium! No way! I love that neighborhood. I live less than three miles away. We have to get together—I’m free anytime you are.” That was Randy. No judgment, just showing up. It immediately lifted me.
At Dave’s memorial, I stepped away during a hard moment and stood alone, scanning the room. Randy was across the way, surrounded by people. We never made eye contact, but somehow he saw me. Minutes later, he was there—handing me a beer, pulling me into a hug: “I love ya, Darc. He loved you too.”
And in true Randy fashion, later that same night he insisted he and his niece Evalyn ride in my trunk while we drove two blocks to dinner.
I take comfort in how much joy his home brought him. We talked about it every time we saw each other—how much he loved the peace and tranquility, the beauty, the slower pace, being close to his mom and especially the quality time and experiences he could give Alice, who was his world. And did he ever! I remember him calling my mom to see if my niece Anna wanted to go fishing with him and Alice. She did—and what started as an afternoon trip turned into a sleepover in his living room and pancakes the next morning. That was Randy. Anything Alice was interested in, he made it happen—from adopting turtles, to horseback riding and her sports. Together they fished swam, dove, boated, created and had endless fun with their extended family and friends.
He built a life full of fun and connection and gave his daughter a childhood full of incredible and happy memories that will last a lifetime. Showing time and again that the little things are the big things. That’s the legacy he leaves—and is one we can aspire to.
Randy you were such a special guy, truly one of a kind—a once-in-a-lifetime person. Seeing the outpouring of love, support and tributes, it’s clear you are one of those rare people whose impact is just as powerful in death as it was in life.
Thank you for EVERYTHING. I love you and will carry you in my heart, mind and memories forever.
We both lived in Seattle in our twenties. I still remember a voicemail he left me:
“Daaaaaaaaaarc—Randall, what’s up? I’m going down to the beach this weekend. I’ll pick you up if you want to go. It's gonna be lawn dart weather and, dammit… it’s Allyn Days. Call me.”
I laughed so hard, replayed it so many times—I can still hear it vividly more than 20 years later.
Randy eventually moved back closer to home, and I followed a few years later. Those first months were tough—convinced I’d made a huge mistake and I was miserable. Somehow he got wind of it, because, out of the blue, I got a text from him: “I just heard you moved to Stadium! No way! I love that neighborhood. I live less than three miles away. We have to get together—I’m free anytime you are.” That was Randy. No judgment, just showing up. It immediately lifted me.
At Dave’s memorial, I stepped away during a hard moment and stood alone, scanning the room. Randy was across the way, surrounded by people. We never made eye contact, but somehow he saw me. Minutes later, he was there—handing me a beer, pulling me into a hug: “I love ya, Darc. He loved you too.”
And in true Randy fashion, later that same night he insisted he and his niece Evalyn ride in my trunk while we drove two blocks to dinner.
I take comfort in how much joy his home brought him. We talked about it every time we saw each other—how much he loved the peace and tranquility, the beauty, the slower pace, being close to his mom and especially the quality time and experiences he could give Alice, who was his world. And did he ever! I remember him calling my mom to see if my niece Anna wanted to go fishing with him and Alice. She did—and what started as an afternoon trip turned into a sleepover in his living room and pancakes the next morning. That was Randy. Anything Alice was interested in, he made it happen—from adopting turtles, to horseback riding and her sports. Together they fished swam, dove, boated, created and had endless fun with their extended family and friends.
He built a life full of fun and connection and gave his daughter a childhood full of incredible and happy memories that will last a lifetime. Showing time and again that the little things are the big things. That’s the legacy he leaves—and is one we can aspire to.
Randy you were such a special guy, truly one of a kind—a once-in-a-lifetime person. Seeing the outpouring of love, support and tributes, it’s clear you are one of those rare people whose impact is just as powerful in death as it was in life.
Thank you for EVERYTHING. I love you and will carry you in my heart, mind and memories forever.
April 20, 2026
We had a short but memorable run with Randy in our lives. We lost touch around the time he became a dad, which was understandable as I had small children of my own at the time. Whenever I asked about him, I was always told was that he was a doting father to Alice, and that made me smile. Randy had a knack for making people smile. I had always hoped we’d reconnect once our kids were grown, but that day will have to wait. See you on the flip side, brother. Rodeo!
April 20, 2026
I didn’t know Randy too well…our daughters play soccer together so we were just always at the field watching the girls. But he was always there. Always watching…always so proud of Alice. I’ll miss you Randy!
April 20, 2026
I knew Randy since we were kids. Nobody has a single negative thing to say about this guy. The only peace I have today is knowing that him and his amazing father are reunited someplace together. I just found out about this yesterday and am totally devastated we have lost another great person.
April 19, 2026
So, so many things to share.
Your favorite number was 13, it also happens to be the day you made your way to heaven. I know you're bragging to your dad about Alice.
We met at Terrys Office Tavern. You were the cute one in a beanie.
My five year wedding anniversary gift was a wooden box with notes, because wood is the symbol for five years. Who knew?
I've never seen a smile so big as yours when you held your daughter for the first time.
You always started a garden in March and always made Alice part of the process.
You and Alice made a cat tree out of recycled items for her school science fair. And it was really good.
Alice knew all the words to Midnight Rider by the time she was four.
Alice was jumping into pools at age one, because you were there catching her.
You had the best group of friends. I always felt welcomed, included, seen.
We had a great 40th birthday party for you at Narrows Brewing--friends and family all celebrating you.
I think you wore your Angus Young Halloween costume 6 years straight.
It was so cool for Alice to have a science teacher dad.
You coached her soccer teams and had a couple undefeated seasons.
Our wedding is still one of the best days of my life. Thank you.
Your loath for technology and forms really was comical.
You made the best camping food.
You got me to hike a whole mountain.
I think you liked the process of prepping to fish as much as actually fishing.
Remember, you tiled my grandma's floor and we refurbished her dining room set.
Oh, and that photo shoot we did with Floyd all around Tacoma.
Please find Floyd and give him a snuggle.
We always talked about how lucky we were for our families. You are greatly missed.
I promise to do my best for Alice. There is a hole in her heart that won't be filled. I will keep your memory alive, promise.
Lock in!
Your favorite number was 13, it also happens to be the day you made your way to heaven. I know you're bragging to your dad about Alice.
We met at Terrys Office Tavern. You were the cute one in a beanie.
My five year wedding anniversary gift was a wooden box with notes, because wood is the symbol for five years. Who knew?
I've never seen a smile so big as yours when you held your daughter for the first time.
You always started a garden in March and always made Alice part of the process.
You and Alice made a cat tree out of recycled items for her school science fair. And it was really good.
Alice knew all the words to Midnight Rider by the time she was four.
Alice was jumping into pools at age one, because you were there catching her.
You had the best group of friends. I always felt welcomed, included, seen.
We had a great 40th birthday party for you at Narrows Brewing--friends and family all celebrating you.
I think you wore your Angus Young Halloween costume 6 years straight.
It was so cool for Alice to have a science teacher dad.
You coached her soccer teams and had a couple undefeated seasons.
Our wedding is still one of the best days of my life. Thank you.
Your loath for technology and forms really was comical.
You made the best camping food.
You got me to hike a whole mountain.
I think you liked the process of prepping to fish as much as actually fishing.
Remember, you tiled my grandma's floor and we refurbished her dining room set.
Oh, and that photo shoot we did with Floyd all around Tacoma.
Please find Floyd and give him a snuggle.
We always talked about how lucky we were for our families. You are greatly missed.
I promise to do my best for Alice. There is a hole in her heart that won't be filled. I will keep your memory alive, promise.
Lock in!
April 19, 2026
I got to know Randy from the soccer team in high school: he was popular, I was the classic band geek. I was also the ball girl our junior and senior years of high school... trying to do what I could to break through my utter fear of boys at an awkward time of life. Randy, like most of that crew, was kind enough to leave a lasting positive impression on 17-year-old me. 10 years later was when Randy really imprints on my brain: I had already graduated from college, but was going back for my teaching certification at WSU. We got to chatting at our 10 year reunion and he was so excited to hear about my continuing education plans, he was shouting WAZZUUUUU! The man's love for his alma mater was palpable! He had the joie de vivre. I wish he had made it to our 30th- I would have treasured the opportunity to catch up. To his family, I extend my deepest sympathy. To his close friends, my admiration for what you shared with him: Randy will be missed by those on the periphery, so I can only imagine the depth of your loss.
April 18, 2026
My dad coached Randy’s soccer team, the Shoreliners, for years and my sister and I always went to all the soccer tournaments. One trip my sister and I were in the back of our RV (maybe 11 years old) and a van full of the soccer team drove past. Randy waved then turned around and pulled down his pants and mooned us! My sister and I were of course appalled and I will never forget how hard my dad laughed. He almost had to pull the RV over. I imagine he and Dave and Randy are all having a good laugh together now.
April 18, 2026
One of the most meaningful memory’s I have of Randy is when we went camping about a month after we met. I was a bit nervous because we hadn’t known each other long but I was like…okay he is a teacher so they did back ground checks etc so I am just going to do this.
We hadn’t known each other long…we a great first day and when we went to sleep he mumbled “Good night (a name I couldn’t understand)” I literally couldn’t believe he was saying good night to someone else besides me so I asked “what?”
His sleepy reply was “Good night Alice”. And that was it, I knew there was no way I wouldn’t seriously date this man who always had his daughter foremost in his mind.
We hadn’t known each other long…we a great first day and when we went to sleep he mumbled “Good night (a name I couldn’t understand)” I literally couldn’t believe he was saying good night to someone else besides me so I asked “what?”
His sleepy reply was “Good night Alice”. And that was it, I knew there was no way I wouldn’t seriously date this man who always had his daughter foremost in his mind.
April 18, 2026
Randy was a loving father, son, brother, uncle and loyal friend to all of us. He had that special Schneider attribute of making people always feel happy and welcome. He left us way too soon but he will always have a spot in our hearts that will bring a smile and wonderful memories. Randy has now climbed the stairway to heaven and I know he was greeted by his dad David and uncle Rich who gave him his wings and began their many hikes through the heavens. Until we meet again, love you, Denny
April 17, 2026
Randy - You were indeed a force. Always.
You were 366 days older than me, and somehow you were always just ahead of me in life. From kindergarten testing...where you passed and I didn’t...to college where you passed, and I eventually got there…you were always out in front, and I was always watching.
What I remember most is how you showed up. You always looked out for me. From the time we were kids all the way through life, you were just there in this steady, easy, Randy way.
You brought so much energy into everything. I mean, of course you were the social chair of your fraternity. That was you! You connected people, made things fun, made everyone know they belonged. You just had that gift.
I’ll never forget you at my wedding, raising hell in the best way, or how naturally you became friends with Brian, or how you showed up for my kids. You didn’t just talk to them...you connected with them. Teaching them things (science or music abound), making them laugh, getting them to jump off bridges, taking them to Sounders games on a dime because someone had extra tickets, or even gifting a first Pink Floyd poster as a right of passage. You made them feel seen and included, just like you did with everyone.
And seeing you as a dad… that might be what I’ll hold onto the most. You loved Alice so much. It was so obvious in the way you talked about her, the way you showed up for her, the way you were just all in. She was everything to you. And, we all have no doubts she will live her life with the same zest you did. She already shows so much Randy-ness and can't wait to watch what happens next.
You were such a great brother to Leigh and Traci, an amazing son to Susan and Dave, and such a big, fun presence for all of us Brands and Guys. You made life better just by being in it.
You’re going to be missed. A lot. I love you, cuz!
April 17, 2026
I met Randy at WSU in 1994. He was so much fun to be around. You never had a bad time when Randy was present. He always made you laugh and feel welcomed. He will be missed. Sending my love to his family and friends.
April 17, 2026
Randy,
You were the BEST - the best brother, the best uncle, the best friend - I don’t know anyone who would disagree. You lived and loved BIG and will be deeply missed. It brings me comfort knowing you are at peace and reunited with Dad. I would have loved to see that reunion! We will remember and cherish the memories forever. There are so many! I love and miss you so much already. ❤️
You were the BEST - the best brother, the best uncle, the best friend - I don’t know anyone who would disagree. You lived and loved BIG and will be deeply missed. It brings me comfort knowing you are at peace and reunited with Dad. I would have loved to see that reunion! We will remember and cherish the memories forever. There are so many! I love and miss you so much already. ❤️
Family tree
Other family members
Sam Sutherland
Nephew
Evalyn Sutherland
Niece
Nora Sutherland
Niece
Aaron Kuster
Nephew
Andy Kuster
Nephew
Ayla Kuster
Niece
Eddie Mills
Erma Mills
Ronnie Schneider
Dick Schneider
Susan Schnieder
Dave Schneider
Leigh & Scott Sutherland
Traci & Joe Kuster
Alice Schneider
Leigh & Scott Sutherland
Traci & Joe Kuster
Alice Schneider
Randy Schneider
Celebration of Life
Please join us to celebrate Randy.
This will be a time to come together, share stories, laughter, and the kind of connection he created everywhere he went.
All who knew and loved Randy are welcome. Come as you are.
RSVPs are optional, but helpful as we plan for the celebration.
This will be a time to come together, share stories, laughter, and the kind of connection he created everywhere he went.
All who knew and loved Randy are welcome. Come as you are.
RSVPs are optional, but helpful as we plan for the celebration.
Celebrating Randy
Gig Harbor Vintage Aero Museum
1108 26th AVE NW
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
1108 26th AVE NW
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
June 13, 2026 | 4:00 - 8:00 PM
RSVP
made with 
Français
Deutsch
Nederlands
Español
Português
Magyar
Русский
繁體中文