The Schnehain Family
They were a hardworking family. Earl E. Schnehain was a tool and die maker. His wife, Christine, was a bookkeeper. Their only child, Earl Jr., joined the US Army and later became a factory worker. They all lived together in a small house in Deer Park, and when his parents died, Earl Jr. continued to live there. The family's unassuming lifestyle gave little hint of the wonderful legacy they would one day leave to Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.
Decades ago, when Christine and Earl wrote their will, they had two priorities: to take care of their son and to make a positive impact on their community. They consulted with their trusted attorney, Samuel L. Chalfie, for help selecting a worthwhile charity. Later, Samuel's son, James, joined his law practice and also worked with the Schnehain family. He and his father agreed that Cincinnati Children's would be a good steward of their clients' gift, though neither guessed the value of the estate.
Earl E. Schnehain passed away in 1987. Christine died 10 years later, and Earl Jr. passed away in 2004. When the estate was settled, James Chalfie was pleased to learn that Cincinnati Children's would receive a gift from the Schnehain family in excess of $600,000. The bequest was made as an unrestricted gift, enabling the medical center's leaders to use the funds to meet the institution's most pressing needs.
Through their generosity, the Schnehains left a legacy that will have a lasting impact. Their gift to Cincinnati Children's will help bring the joy of healthier lives to children in our community and around the world.
