If you had opportunity to attend an auction in Southwest Wisconsin over the last 40 years where antiques and curiosities were a feature, it is highly likely that you interacted with James T. Schneller.

Schneller, who died in September 2013, was a regular at auctions throughout the region, often accompanied by his best friend and partner, Carrie Ruttman.

After discussions with PHS Advisory Board member Gene Weber, Schneller’s son, Jim Jr,, and daughter-in-law, Karen, in collaboration with the Schneller family have established a scholarship endowment. Funded in part with memorial monies honoring Schneller’s life, the scholarship was created through the PHS Scholarship Fund, a component of the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin. The inaugural scholarship will be awarded to member of the Platteville High School Class of 2015 who will pursue a degree in the field of education at a four-year accredited university.

James Schneller came to Platteville in the early 1950s to attend college. He earned his degree in education and pursued a career in the region’s public schools. He taught both English and history and later became principal at Potosi, Cuba City and Cassville. In the late 1970s Schneller left the education field to pursue his growing passion of antiquing. Schneller’s knowledge of antiques — and particularly glassware — was extensive. He shared that passion with others as manager of Antiques Unlimited in Cuba City.

“Dad was invested in Southwest Wisconsin and Platteville,” said Jim Schneller Jr. “He understood the great difference that an education makes in a person’s future."

“Our family believes that this scholarship, which will be given in perpetuity, is a fitting way to remember him and to help students achieve their educational goals,” said Karen Schneller.

For more information about establishing a named scholarship endowment or to make a donation, contact PHS advisory board member Gene Weber, 778-6914, or CFSW Donor Services Representative Barb Daus, barb@cfsw.org, 778-3344. Donations to the PHS Scholarship Fund can be sent to PO Box 46, Platteville, WI 53818 or can be made online at www.cfsw.org.