Tony Cate and Janet Schneider-Cate
Tony had a quiet generosity. He loved to be around people and was always eager to help those facing tough times. Tony would close his dinner prayer with, “Keep us ever mindful of the needs of others.”
Janet found great joy in giving back. She sought to support organizations and causes she loved and that strengthened her community. In fact, she and her first husband, Richard, were one of the first to set up a fund with WYCF ensuring causes important to the two of them were supported.
The Richard C. Schneider and Janet S. Schneider fund was established to benefit arts and cultural activities, veterinary and other scientific research, conservation efforts and care of and support for abused women and children in Natrona County.
Tony and Janet’s paths crossed from time to time, but it was not until later in life that they found each other. The two were kindred spirits. They shared a love for the arts, animals and for helping those less fortunate. As a couple, they were a force for good. In 2005 Janet passed away.
Tony continued to give – rarely saying no to anyone in need. A friend and former professional advisor to Tony, Joni Kumor notes with a smile, “Tony could not say no. I would tell him, ‘You don’t need to give everyone asking for money a check.’ But he would! It made him feel good.”
After Janet’s passing, the Schneider Fund continued to give as well. The Nicolaysen Art Museum, Self-Help Center, Seton House, Wyoming Symphony Orchestra, Platte River Trails Trust, 12-24 Club and so many more nonprofits benefitted from the grants made. Before the fund was closed, the Schneider Fund made nearly 300 grants totaling over $3.2 million.
Seeing the impact his late wife’s fund had on their community, Tony made a bequest to also establish a fund with WYCF – the Tony Cate Endowed Fund. Recognizing that community needs often change, Tony made the Cate Fund unrestricted, trusting the WYCF Casper Area Local Board to make important granting decisions, forever.
Even after Janet’s and Tony’s lifetimes, their decisions to create funds with WYCF mean their commitment to giving continues. The Wyoming Community Foundation is humbled to be a part of continuing their lasting legacy of philanthropy, and we thank them for having Wyoming’s future in mind.