Richard (Dick) Eugene Schnarrs

Richard (Dick) Eugene Schnarrs, loving husband of Barbara and inspirational father of Raymond E. Schnarrs and Beverly L. Scott, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, May 3, 2007.  He was born in Meadville on October 10, 1932.  He was a son of Clair L. and Dorothy M. Schnarrs who preceded him in death.  His brother, Clair (Leslie) Schnarrs also preceded him in death.

Raised during the depression, he became determined at a young age to become successful in life.  Not being able to afford a bicycle as a young boy, he worked at a part time job for 12 cents an hour to buy parts to build his own.

On June 14, 1950, Dick married his high school sweetheart and soul mate, Barbara J. (Bobie) Brant.  They enjoyed 57 years together.  He was a veteran of the Korean War with the National Guard 112th, stationed at Camp Atterbury, Indiana.  After serving, Dick returned to Meadville with his wife and new son, to work as a carpenter.  His goal was to own his own home and he felt that by learning the trade he would have the skills to build his own.  With materials salvaged from a torn down house, he and Barb worked together on their first home.  In 1960, California looked like a good place to begin his own business so he moved his family, now including a daughter, to Los Gatos.  He learned innovative construction techniques in California that he later applied when moving back to Meadville in 1962.  His first business, Dick’s Kitchen Center, soon blossomed, as he became well known for building quality cabinets.  His wife, Barb, became his indispensable partner and sounding board through the ups and downs of running a total of 3 businesses over the course of the next 45 years.

Schnarrs Construction Company was soon formed.  Dick and one other worker built one house at a time for a number of years.  From this humble beginning, his construction business went on to build over 400 homes and numerous apartment and commercial buildings around Meadville.  Serenity Heights, Woodland Heights, Suburban Heights, Autumn Hills, Tamarack Heights, Oakwood Apartments, and North Street Plaza are among the most well known of his projects.  He also designed and built residential buildings for the United Community Independence Programs.  In addition, he constructed the building that houses the United States Department of Agriculture.  Never satisfied with his accomplishments, he continued to dream and plan for future endeavors.  Dick always said that he loved his work and wouldn’t want to retire to do anything else.  This wish was fulfilled, as when he went to be with the Lord, he was busy working on his schedule for the upcoming day.

Dick became a believer of Christ long ago.  He was a member of the Wayland Baptist Church.  Always encouraging others to believe in themselves and to strive toward high goals, Dick had a soft spot for helping people get a leg up financially.  His passions included investing in the Stock Market, developing new enterprises, attending auctions, always looking for a bargain.

Survivors in addition to his wife are a son, Raymond E. Schnarrs and his wife Diane of Meadville, and a daughter, Beverly L. Scott and her husband Don of Meadville.  Survivors also include six grandchildren, Jason Scott and his wife Brenda, Jon Scott and his wife Tammy, Bessie Vogel, Shauna Warzyniak and her husband Andy, Ellen Cummings, and Nicole Schnarrs.  Great grandchildren include Jonathon, Tristin, Julie, Kylie, Jacob, Michael and Jacob.  Additional survivors include several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours are Saturday and Sunday from 2:00 to 4:00 at Waid Funeral Home, 581 Chestnut Street, Meadville, where a celebration of his life will be held at 11:00 on Monday.  Pastor Harlan Nefstead of Wayland Baptist Church will officiate.  Interment at Greendale Cemetery, with military honors presented by VFW Post 2006, will immediately follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be sent to the Cleveland Clinic Heart Institute, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195.