Submitted by her Sister
Amy was born on March 6‚ 1971‚ in Ann Arbor‚ Michigan. She was the daughter of James and Jane Schnearle. Amy grew up on her parent’s dairy farm‚ graduated from Manchester High School in 1989 and earned a degree in education from Eastern Michigan University in 1997. Meanwhile she joined the Manchester Township Fire Department as their first female fire fighter in 1996. She became a member of the Ann Arbor Fire Department in 1998 where she was an EMT and a member of the Hazmat Team. She always dreamed of being a fire fighter and her passion and determination led her on the path of helping others.
Amy was an excellent hostess of parties; loved water sports‚ vacationing and being around friends and family. She was a Longaberger consultant and raised money to walk in the Breast Cancer 3-Day 60-mile walk in support of family and friends.
On January 13‚ 2006‚ Amy tragically lost her life in the line of duty. Amy was a firefighter at the Ann Arbor Fire Department for 8 years. Amy had a zest for life that was contagious. She had a passion for helping others and building meaningful relationships. Her kindness‚ confidence and organization led her on a journey that touched so many lives. She is cherished by family‚ friends and communities who have seen the beauty and dedication in how she lived her life to the fullest. She is deeply missed.
Amy is survived by her husband‚ Alan‚ stepson‚ Jacob; parents‚ Jim and Jane Schnearle; two sisters; Bobbi Kunzelman and Jenni Kerns.
Although I did npt know this amazing young woman. I wanna say Thank you for the time you dedicated to saving and educating people. I hear over and over that all they do is sit around and watch tv and dri k coffee. Little do people realize you have training classes and have tp inspect ypur trucks and make sure they have everything filed. Tjey dont think about when they are al snug in their bed fast asleep that you could be out at a MVA or spmepne having chest pains.
– Kim WoodI am sp very sorry you were taken away from what you love doing
Again thank you for your service in Ann Arbor.
I was called in to work this crash. Amy was one of the nicest people that worked for the City of Ann Arbor. When I found out she was the victim of the crash I was crushed. It was a terrible day for the FD, and the rest of the City. I was honored to escort her funeral procession past her firehouse and into her hometown. RIP Hero!!!! Never Forgotten.
– Sgt Bill ClockToday I was walking down the highway and a gentle Brian stopped and said he refuse to let me continue walking because he was onsite when this accident happened to Amy and he said to himself NOT TODAY…So R.i.p to Amy She is not forgotten and her story saved my life…
– Passion JonesThis young lady had a dream that was taken away to soon,when i visit my parents graves i always go up to her and say THANK YOU,
– marjorie (mcgee) cliffordAmy was one of my favorite rookies. She was a very bright and compassionate person. Sometimes in the evening after dinner we would set out in front Of station one and talk. I will never forget the day I retired. She came up to me and said “can I have a hug before you go”. She made my day.
– Battalion chief James Breslin (retired)I live in the Engine House #3 neighborhood in Ann Arbor. Whenever I pass the fire station I reflect on the memorial honoring Firefighter Amy Schnearle-Pennywitt. She served us all courageously, and is still gratefully remembered.
– elizabeth workmanRest In Peace Sister. You are loved and remembered.
– Samuel Trachet