Obituary of Bernhard H. Schindler

Bernhard H. (Ben/Benny) Schindler, of Fairfield, beloved husband of Ann, passed away on Tuesday, August 3, 2021. Born and raised in Waltdorf, Germany on October 23, 1930, Ben came to the United States in 1953 and lived in Ridgewood NY for many years and then Fairfield, CT for the last 30 years. A carpenter by trade, Ben had worked for the New York City Carpenters Union until his retirement. His skill and passion for woodworking extended into many home projects for his family and others. Ben was a longtime parishioner of Holy Cross Church where he belonged to the Holy Name Society and was an active volunteer for various church functions. Ben was a very athletic person, in his younger years he enjoyed playing soccer, tennis, skiing, pickleball, golf, bowling basically you name the game and he'd be happy to join in. He was a true sport in other areas too as his big heart rarely if ever said no to anything asked of him, that is if he hadn't already volunteered. Ben truly loved his German heritage food, a good beer, and anything that was either salty or sweet. In 2007 Ben and Ann became "snowbirders" splitting their time in CT and The Villages, FL. It was in FL that he and Ann joined several clubs where they were able to continue their joint love of dancing, especially polkas and waltzes. In addition to Ann, his loving wife of 58 years, he leaves behind a son, Robert (Bob) and his wife Janine, cousins: Erica, Eberhard, and Helmut; great nieces: Stephanie and Daniela; great great niece Stella Marie; great great nephews: Pascal and Max Franz, Hannes; sister-in-law Rose whose family includes nieces: Susan and Joan; nephews: James and Thomas; great nieces: Julia, Kaitlyn, Caprina and Brie; great nephews Jacob, Steven and Croix; and great great nephew Jaxson. He was predeceased by his sister Elizabeth and nephew Bernt of Ingersleben, Germany. Funeral services will be held on Monday, August 9 at 11:30 am directly at Holy Cross Church, 750 Tahmore Drive, Fairfield with burial to follow in Lawncroft Cemetery. Calling hours will be held on Sunday from 2-5 pm in the Lesko & Polke Funeral Home, 1209 Post Rd., Fairfield Center. To sign an online register or to get travel directions, please visit: www.LeskoPolkeFuneralHome.com