Evan Schneider, 29

Evan Schneider, 29, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2008.

Even as a tiny infant, Evan was curious. Everything then was brand new, and he wanted to know more! He sustained this curiosity throughout his life; finding new friends, seeking new adventures, hunting for new treasures, and trying to figure out new ways to go fast.

Evan always treasured relationships with family and friends. He and Carrie entertained often in their home and always were connecting with others.

'We all felt deep commitment from Evan; he really cared about us and would always be there to help us. As his mother, I knew I was special. He hugged me and talked to me. He shared his happiness and his sorrows.

'That fateful fall day last year when David Graham died, Evan was at the scene. He called me right away to let me know that he was alive and well. I sobbed with relief and prayed thanksgiving to God for keeping my son safe that day. Today I am sobbing for my loss, but thanking God for giving me nearly 30 joyful years with my loving son.'

Evan's parents were blessed to share his life. His father, Gordon, started his career in the Border Patrol at Calexico, Calif., the week after Evan's birth. Gordon instilled a commitment to work hard and do the job right. Gordon shared his enthusiasm and ideals for a career in law enforcement, and his love of treasure hunting and canoeing and with his sons. His mother, Becky, fostered appreciation for museums, beaches, camping, hiking, cooking and video games. (He took the video game passion to an unexpected level of expertise.)

Evan was proud of his service in the U.S. Marine Corps. He left for boot camp while he was still 17. He visited many exotic ports in Hawaii, Indonesia, Australia, Seychelles, Bahrain and Kuwait.

The happiest day of Evan's life was his wedding day. He married the most beautiful woman in the world, and they loved each other passionately. Their love deepened and matured. It was so inspiring to watch their interactions. Even when they disagreed, they could talk and laugh and work it out. They were so proud of each other. They worked hard together and played hard together.

Another special day in Evan's life was his brother's birth. Evan and Jim shared their lives for 25 years. Evan shared his knowledge and skills with Jim. He protected him. He encouraged him. Jim followed Evan into the Montana Highway Patrol. They were both so proud of each other.

Evan communicated respectfully and kindly with every person. I heard that he could even make a driver feel OK about getting a ticket. You may not like the ticket, but you liked Evan.

Evan was a master storyteller. He had perfect delivery and could say the punch line with a totally straight face. Then you would see that twinkle in his eye and we would all laugh uproariously. When Evan laughed, the room glowed. His happiness infused everyone who was near.

Evan had a special place in his life for animals. His repertoire of pets included just about every creature which can be kept legally. He and his dad caught wild creatures to get a closer look, then turned them loose again. He raised Sam kitty from 2 days old with an eye dropper. He had rabbits, mice, rats, guinea pigs, snakes, turtles, fish, chinchilla and lizards. Bo and Duke, his wild and crazy terriers, Missy his cat, and 'Mama Wabbit' will miss their 'papa.'

Evan was a talented artist. As a child and young man he drew prolifically. The primary theme was cars and trucks that he dreamed of driving. As he got older, his artistry shifted to model cars and trucks, then he started to work on the 'real thing.'

His current fleet includes his first truck, 'The Bronco,' which he modified in high school, saving all his cash for a lift kit and big tires. The crowd at the mug bog races at the fairgrounds cheered wildly when he jumped highest and got the 'best air' of the day. He was very excited about his prospects at the Plains Demo Derby this year; he was confident that his new car and his partnerships would win the day.

Evan was dedicated to the Montana Highway Patrol. He endured some tough times, trusting that things would improve. He loved his job and loved his comrades. He maintained the highest level of professional standards and ethics. The state of Montana is proud to have had Evan as its representative.

Evan is survived by his wife, Carrie Schneider, father, Gordon Schneider, brother, Jim Schneider, and mother, Becky Sturdevant, all of Kalispell; and a host of extended family and friends.

We have been blessed with many flowers. Please consider a donation to the Hope Project or Violence Free Crisis Line and The Abbie Shelter, or to an account that has been arranged at Glacier Bank in Kalispell. These funds will be used to honor Evan's memory, through a scholarship fund, or other charitable process.

A celebration of Evan's life will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 2, at the Christian Center Assembly of God Church in Kalispell, with interment ceremonies at Glacier Memorial Gardens.

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family. To send condolences, please go to www.buffalohillfh.com