Rochelle L. Schindler

Schindler, Rochelle L., age 89, passed away on January 8, 2026. She was born in Ware, Massachusetts to the late Frank and Alfreda (Deslaurier) LaCroix. She graduated from Ware High School in 1954. A longtime accomplished pianist, she attended the Berklee Music College in Boston for 1-year before deciding to become a flight attendant and later moving to Chicago where she met her future husband, James (Jim) Schindler. They soon married and spent time in Key West, Florida and Cleveland, Ohio before settling into the Dayton, Ohio area in 1969.

Rochelle was a trailblazer and followed her heart as a young lady in search for deeper purpose and meaning in her life. This spiritual pilgrimage brought her into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as a young woman. Her acceptance of God, her trust in Him, and service to Him remained the backbone of her spiritual journey for the rest of her life. She passed this legacy on to her children, her extended family, and dear friends.

Rochelle enjoyed playing the piano for churches and special events. She was the main pianist for two church orchestras in Cleveland and Dayton, Ohio (including Fairhaven Church). She enjoyed rescuing dogs, reading, decorating, cooking, hosting family and friends in her home, and was passionate about her role as a loving wife and mother. She poured her heart into creating a special environment in her home that was both inviting and restful. She was the ultimate homemaker and proud of her supportive role.

She was preceded in death by her loving, committed husband of 67 years James R Schindler Sr less than 2-weeks ago (together forever), her older brother David LaCroix, and her younger sister Nancy Laviolette. She is survived by her younger sister Joyce Waskiewicz, her younger sister Patricia Bachand, her four sons - Jay (wife Vicki), Dave (wife Kristin), Mike (wife Linda), and Mark (wife Sharon); as well as 11 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren (1 great grandson due in February 2026).

The family will greet friends from 10:00am to 11:00am on Friday morning, January 16 at Fairhaven Church Chapel, 637 E Whipp Rd, Centerville, OH 45459. A celebration of life memorial service will follow at 11:00am with David Smith officiating. Burial at David’s Cemetery.

The four sons of Rochelle wish to extend a special thank you to Sherrie Jones-Tomkins, Deanna Throop, and Maria Schindler for the ‘care-giving’ services provided to their mother as her homemaking and physical abilities slipped away. You served her well.