James Peter Schnettler, 73, of Sheboygan Falls, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Jim was born on December 17, 1952, in Sheboygan to Robert and Betty (Kellner) Schnettler. He graduated from Sheboygan Falls High School in 1972 and began his career working for Wick Homes. In 1973, he joined his father and brothers at Poly Vinyl Co., where he helped build and grow the family business. Through their hard work and dedication, the business provided employment and opportunities for people throughout the local communities for more than 64 years. Jim retired in 2022, leaving behind a lasting legacy that his son, Mark, continues today. The family business will soon celebrate 65 years.
On November 7, 1981, Jim married Phyllis Dunne at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Sheboygan Falls. Together, they built a life centered on family, community, and a love for the outdoors. One of Jim’s greatest joys was spending time with his family and grandchildren at their cottage in Sayner, Wisconsin.
Jim was a member of Blessed Trinity Catholic Parish in Sheboygan Falls and St. Mary Catholic Church in Sayner. At both churches, he generously shared his time, talents, and skills through numerous building and grounds projects. He also served as president of the Buildings and Grounds Committee at Blessed Trinity.
A dedicated community member, Jim served as Scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 826, enjoying trips and adventures with the scouts throughout the country. He was also instrumental in establishing the ropes course at Sheboygan Falls High School. Jim was recognized for his contributions to the community with the Jerry Ziegler Award in 2020.
Jim had a lifelong passion for automobiles, particularly Corvettes. A member of KMCC Corvette since 1971, he served as both president and governor over time for the club. From 1985 to 1995, he enjoyed vintage historic Corvette racing, combining his love of cars with the excitement of the racetrack. He also loved water skiing and downhill skiing and enjoyed spending time outdoors.
His connection to Sayner extended well beyond the family cottage. Jim was deeply involved in the Town of Plum Lake and Sayner community and contributed his time and talents to numerous local projects. He was especially devoted to Plum Lake Golf Club, where he enjoyed golfing, participated in building projects, and served as president from 2007 to 2012. In recognition of his lasting contributions to the community, a street will be named in his honor on November 7, 2026.
Jim was a man of many interests and abilities. He earned his aviation permit under the instruction of Mr. L. Mishock in Sheboygan Falls and progressed to solo flight. His musical talents came at a young age when he played guitar for a St. Mary’s school dance in eighth grade. Throughout his life, he also enjoyed designing, building, and finishing homes for family members, putting his creativity and craftsmanship to work on projects that would be enjoyed for years to come.
Jim believed in giving back and supporting others. He shared his love of cooking by participating in Safe Harbor Men Who Cook and the Big Brothers Big Sisters Chow Down in Cheese Town. He was also involved in the Unity Music Festival, which benefited the Sheboygan County Cancer Care Fund.
Whether he was building a business, helping a church, supporting a community project, working on a home, or making memories with his family, Jim approached life with an A-Positive Attitude to lend a hand and make a difference. His legacy lives on through the family business he helped grow, the many organizations and communities he served, and, most importantly, the family and friends whose lives he touched.
Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Phyllis; his sons, David Schnettler of Sheboygan and Mark (Tricia) Schnettler of Plymouth; and his cherished grandchildren, Eli and Ella Schnettler. He is also survived by his sister, Susan (Bruce) Schrimpf; his brothers, Thomas (Joan) Schnettler, Robert Schnettler, and Michael (Alison) Schnettler; his sister-in-law, Barbara Dunne; and his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Scott (Kitty Meyer) Dunne, Patricia (Rick) Herman, and Mark (Jill) Dunne. Many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends also survive him.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Betty Schnettler, and his parents-in-law, Desmond and Geraldine Dunne.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Jim will be celebrated at Blessed Trinity Catholic Parish in Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin, on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. All are welcome to join via livestream by visiting Jim’s obituary page at wenigfh.com.
Visitation will be held at the church
Wednesday, October 28, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m.
A second Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mary Catholic Church in Sayner, Wisconsin, on Friday, November 6, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. Visitation will take place at the church that morning from 9:30 to 11:15 a.m.
Memorials in Jim’s name:
Blessed Trinity Catholic Parish: All donations will go to support the buildings and grounds committee for the church.
St. Mary Catholic Church: All donations will go to support the kitchen remodeling project at Sayner.
Jim will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his pride in the family business, his generosity, his craftsmanship, and his unwavering commitment to the communities he called home. He leaves behind a legacy built not only through his work, but through the countless lives he touched along the way.
The Schnettler family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Bettag and staff for their excellent care. Also, Sharon S. Richardson for their care, especially Bre, Callista and Vicki for their wonderful support and care.
Wenig Funeral Home in Sheboygan Falls is honored to serve the Schnettler family. Please visit wenigfh.com for more information.
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