Obituary for Gloria J. Schnepf

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gloria J. Schnepf, a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, who left this world quietly on May 17, 2025, at the age of 73. Gloria was born on May 11, 1952, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Myrl Rex Heckert and Verna Juanita Lynde. She is now reunited with her parents and her beloved husband, James Dean Schnepf, whom she married on September 2, 1972, in Peterson, Iowa.

Gloria was a proud domestic housewife who dedicated her life to caring for all who entered her home. She possessed a loving spirit and fiery determination, traits that defined her character and endeared her to many. With an innate ability to nurture and embrace, she welcomed family and friends into her life with open arms, treating them as her own. A true "spitfire" in every sense, Gloria's determination to overcome challenges made her an inspiring figure to those who knew her. There was a resilience in her nature that was both admirable and infectious.

Gloria was a woman of many talents and passions. She held a Bachelor's Degree and was educated, but her true vocation was found in the warmth of her home and the joy she brought to those around her. She loved living in the countryside, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Her fondness for animals was evident in her life, having once shared her home with five dogs, cats, goats, and alpacas. Gloria found joy in gardening, planting flowers, and creating beautiful landscapes that reflected her vibrant spirit. She had a remarkable talent for making yarn from alpaca fleece and would often spin her creations into beautiful yarn pieces.

Cooking, knitting, sewing, and crocheting were not just hobbies for Gloria; they were expressions of her love and creativity. She poured her heart into every meal, stitch, and project, sharing her passion with her family and friends. Gloria had a knack for making everyone feel special, and her homemade creations were a testament to her love for those around her.
Gloria leaves behind a loving family, including her daughter, Jessique Jeanne Cruz, her granddaughter, Bailey Cruz, her brother, Allen Heckert, her sister, Melinda Johnson, and her soul sister, Peggy Ruth. Each of them carries a piece of her spirit and will remember her as a guiding light in their lives.

As we celebrate Gloria's remarkable life, we remember her as a woman who thrived in the old ways, embodying the pioneer spirit. She embraced life with love and enthusiasm, finding joy in the simplest of things. Her legacy of kindness, determination, and love will forever remain in our hearts.

In Gloria’s memory, let us honor her by living with the same passion and love she shared with all of us. We will miss her dearly but will carry her spirit with us as we continue our journeys. Rest in peace, dear Gloria; your light will never fade.