Obituary of Jay Anthony Schnoebelen

Jay Anthony Schnoebelen died August 17, 2008, age 35, from Muscular Dystrophy. Jay is survived by his wife, Kelly Jo (Ryner); daughters, April Noelle and Evelina Dayle; parents, Connie and Dale Schnoebelen; sister, Lynn (Del) Knight; brother, Brian (Theresa) Schnoebelen; nephews, Owen Knight and Logan Pfannebecker; and a niece, Maggie Pfannebecker. He also leaves behind his grandmother Wanda Skubal; special cousin, Christian Skubal; as well as numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Jay is also mourned by special friends, the Shepherd family, Grant Lientz and his beloved cat, Meatloaf. Jay was born January 16, 1973, to Connie (Skubal) and Dale Schnoebelen. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Charles and Evelyn Schnoebelen, grandfather, Percy Skubal, and infant sister, Joyce. Jay was diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy at the age of three and required the use of a wheel chair since the age of 9. Despite limitations, Jay accomplished so much in his life. Attending Hills Elementary School, Jay went on to graduate from West High School of Iowa City in 1991, and graduated from the University of Iowa in 1998 with a bachelor’s degree in computer science. He met his wife, Kelly, through an internet game that he had created and administered. They were married in Las Vegas, Nevada, on July 14, 2000, and renewed their vows one year later. After college graduation, Kelly and Jay moved to Arlington Heights, Illinois, where Jay was employed as a computer software engineer for Motorola. He worked for Motorola from 1999 until his death. Jay was involved in many activities throughout his life, including 4H, MDA summer camp numerous summers, and various computer groups and internet gaming. He and Kelly especially enjoyed going to gaming conventions for Dungeons and Dragons throughout the U.S., and traveled often. When Jay and Kelly renewed their vows in 2001, Jay expressed that he never thought he would be able to grow up, go to college, get a real job, marry and have someone love him, and yet against all odds, Jay has achieved all of this and so much more. When people looked beyond his physical limitations, they found a gentle, intelligent and interesting man. He had a great sense of humor and had many friends during his college years and beyond. His spirit rose above the limitations that his body forced on him; he was always goal oriented and took great pride in his promotions and work for Motorola. His positive attitude, his enjoyment in traveling, and his commitment to his family were an inspiration to all who knew Jay. He was featured during several MDA telethons, was given a life achievement award by MDA in 2002, and also awarded the 1998 Emily Helm’s award. Jay touched every person he met in profound ways. Instead of sitting at home and waiting to die, Jay chose to attend college, get a job, and have as normal of a life as he could. He loved his family and was especially proud of his two beautiful daughters, who will miss him greatly. Jay and April loved to play Star Wars video games together, as well as other computer games. Although Jay was dealt a number of limitations, he was never one to indulge in self pity. He wanted to accomplish much, and was successful in achieving that goal. He had the courage and will to set his goals high, and to achieve those goals. Jay collected armadillos and greatly admired the historical figure of Alexander the Great. Perhaps they reflected some of his internal qualities. He brought to this world a gentle spirit, and he died as he wished; surrounded by family and friends. He was greatly loved and admired, and leaves a hole in our lives. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, August 20, 2008 at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Hills, Iowa where Jay was a member. Visitation will be held Tuesday, August 19th. from 3:30 until 8 p.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, with the family present during that time, concluding with a parish vigil service at 8pm. Burial will be at St. Vincent’s Cemetery near Riverside. Memorial donations may be made to MDA, Camp Courageous and 4H. On-line condolences may be sent for Jay’s family through the web @ www.gayandciha.com. Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service is caring for Jay’s family and his services.