Date of Birth: December 31, 1929
Date of Death: April 19, 2026
William Schindel was born on a family farm on Dec. 31, 1929, and passed away at St. Paul Lutheran Home in Melville, SK, on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at the age of 96 years.
William, known as Willie to most, was the eldest of eight children born to George and Katherine (Schneider) Schindel. He was a true pillar of the Schindel family, and, from an early age, he assumed and carried responsibility with quiet strength, setting an example of hard work, integrity and determined perseverance that guided those around him.
William married Esther Miller on April 2, 1954, and together they began a life rooted in love and dedication. They were blessed with two daughters and later with grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom he deeply cherished.
Born and raised near Birmingham, SK, William also raised his own family there, remaining connected to the land and community throughout his life. A lifelong farmer, he was known as a tireless worker a man of the soil and truly “salt of the earth”. William took great pride in everything he did and believed things should always be done “just so”, a reflection of both his high standards and his deep sense of responsibility. Those standards were definitely reflected in how he cared for his animals, especially his beloved horses in earlier times, his vehicles and his farm equipment.
In the fall of 1991, Dad and Mom retired to Melville, and the farm was sold to family. Dad made frequent trips back, sometimes daily, proving that part of his heart had been left on that land. Once he didn’t drive anymore, he would frequently ask the question, “What’s happening at the farm today?”.
After many years in their home on Jubilee Crescent, it was time to downsize and move to Legion Manor in 2007, where they frequently enjoyed social events with their new neighbours in the common area. And, now within walking distance to the public library, Dad got his first library card and became an avid reader. After Mom’s passing in 2022, he remained at the Manor until his move to St. Paul Lutheran Home in April 2025.
Faith was central to William’s life. As a faithful servant of God, he attended the Pentecostal Church in Melville where he found strength and fellowship. Throughout his life, he was led by his strong Christian values, and his Bible was never far from his reach.
William was predeceased by his wife of more than 68 years, Esther; his parents; siblings Jack (Marjorie) Schindel, Reinhold Schindel, Arthur Schindel, Fred Schindel, Caroline (Donald) Reinheimer and brother-in-law Albert Steffan. Also gone ahead are Esther’s parents, her siblings and their spouses.
William will be mourned and missed by daughters Ruth (Wayne) Gaura and Gail (Wayne) Hoffman; grandchildren Stefanie (Scott) Viczko, Brandon Hoffman, and Austin Gaura (Ashley); great-grandchildren Kallie, Mason and William; and step-great-granddaughter Reagan. Also surviving are his sister, Martha Steffan; brother Ervin (Lorraine) Schindel; sisters-in-law Evelyn Schindel, Gloria Schindel and Margaret Baron; as well as numerous nieces and nephews and their families.
William will be remembered for his unwavering faith, strong work ethic, honesty and steadfast devotion to family. His legacy lives on through those values that he modeled and the lives he touched. Dad’s long life was a remarkable journey. We take solace in the promise of his new heavenly life and that he and Mom are together again.
William’s family appreciates and thanks all those involved in his care this past year.
A private service for immediate family was held Saturday, April 25, 2026, with interment taking place in the Melville City Cemetery.
Arrangements were entrusted to Matthews Funeral Home, Melville.
