Robert S. Schnurr Jr.

Robert Schnurr, Jr. Colonel, U.S. Army (Retired), 76 of Auburn, NY passed away peacefully after a long battle with cancer, on March 20, 2026. He was born in Syracuse and is a graduate of North Syracuse High School and Lemoyne College.Bob was the son of the late Robert and Esther Schnurr.

​“The Colonel” as he was lovingly called by family and friends, long before he earned the rank, served 38 years in the New York State Army National Guard, following in his father’s footsteps. Among his many roles, he served as the Commander of the 27th Infantry Brigade. Throughout Bob’s life, both in his career and with his family and friends, he was always there when help was needed, albeit with numerous sighs, eye-rolls, and, if you were really lucky, some choice words about your character and general decision making. Despite this, Bob always showed up out of love and a call to serve. From monumental national events, countless natural disasters, many DIY projects, a few flat tires, and saving a stray cat or “two” he showed upevery single time. Among his many professional accomplishments, he heroically responded to Ground Zero in the days after the 9/11 Terror Attacks, then worked tirelessly in the following months keeping New York’s bridges, tunnels, and other infrastructure safe. However, his most heroic act was the unparalleled care of his wife, Jeannine, during her struggles with dementia, all while undergoing chemotherapy himself. While he had cancer, Bob ultimately died of a broken heart after losing his wife of nearly 53 years, last Spring.

​Bob is survived by his children, a daughter Britton Schnurr and her husband Jon Malm, a son Robert “Bert” Schnurr III, two beloved granddaughters Francesca “Frankie” Schnurr and Bristol Malm, his brother-in-law and sister-in-law John and Sue Rossi, his step-sister Sheila Quinell, and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

​There will be no calling hours. Bob’s Mass of Christian Burial will be April 18, 2026 at 11:00am at St. Mary’s,immediately followed by interment at St. Joseph’s  Cemetery. The family will receive guests at the church beginning at 10:30 the day of the funeral. 

​Contributions in Bob’s memory may be made to: Finger Lakes SPCA of Central New York, 41 York Street Auburn, New York or to Cayuga County Veteran Support Fund, 95 Genesee Street 3rd Flr, Auburn NY 13021.

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