Willard Patrick Schneese "Pat", age 59, of Wilmington, DE, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Monday, October 23, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Pat was born in Wilmington, DE, son of the late Willard S. and Patricia R. (McLaughlin) Schneese. He was a graduate of Howard Vo-Tech. Retiring in March of 2023 as Crew Chief for New Castle County Parks Department where he worked for over 30 years.

Pat enjoyed spending time with his wife and children supporting them with their sporting and school activities and most recently making memories at their beach house in Bethany Beach. Pat was a proud member of Defiance Athletic Association, The Elks Lodge #307 and The St. Anthony of Padua Holy Name Society. Pat was a past coach with many organizations including St. Anthony of Padua Grade School, Talleyville, and Naamans. In his younger years, Pat was an incredible athlete. Excelling in football, he was proudly selected to play in the Blue & Gold football game his senior year at Howard.

The outpouring of love and kind words that have been shown during this time have been a testament to the kind of man Pat was. He was a true gentle giant. He had the biggest heart and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

In addition to his parents, Pat was predeceased by his father-in-law, Lou Calvarese, Sr. and his brother-in-law, Lou Calvarese, Jr.

Pat is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Susan (Calvarese) Schneese; daughter, Olivia Ann Schneese; son, Luke Patrick Schneese; sisters, Catherine A. Schneese, and Ann M. Guizzetti (John), all of Wilmington; brothers, Richard F. Schneese (Tracy) of Dover and Matthew Schneese (Kimberly) of Wilmington; and his mother-in-law, Irene Calvarese of Wilmington, including many nieces and nephews.

A visitation for Pat will be held on Monday, October 30, 2023, at St. Anthony of Padua Church, Ninth and DuPont Streets, Wilmington, DE, 19805, where family and friends may call from 5PM to 7PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Anthony of Padua on Tuesday, October 31, 2023 at 11:30 a.m.  Burial will be held privately.