Leo Maddox Schneider (7/7/2005 – 1/12/2019) of Seattle was his family’s sunshine, inspiration, and the love of their lives. Beloved by his mother Sylvia Bolton, his father Matt Schneider, and his grandparents Margy and Stan Perl, Leo was their only child and grandchild and the center of their universe.
Leo was 13 at the time of his passing from injuries and eventual complications sustained in a tragic car accident. A gifted child, three years ahead of his grade level in math, well versed in Spanish and Bulgarian, Leo loved computer programming and Lego design. Leo was passionate about learning. Even at a young age, he was following his Mom’s advice “if you can find something you love and are passionate about; make it your profession. It will bring fulfillment and a lot of happiness.” Leo took that to heart and decided early on to go about finding what he loved.
And “Leo loved computer science,” explained Bolton. “He and his friend Lennox shared a dream of attending a university that excelled in computer science so they could build their own company and make a difference in the world." Leo, Lennox and their good friend Judd would talk about everything under the sun and about their futures. Bolton continued, "Everyone knew Leo as having a big, sweet soul and people just loved him. Leo was and will always be remembered as the smart, kind and compassionate kid who was gifted at math and science, loved the outdoors, and was a friend to many. With so much life ahead of him.”
The Leo Maddox Foundation was created as a living legacy to Leo by his mom Sylvia. The Foundation’s mission supports promising young students to achieve their academic potential in fulfilling their dreams. In 2020, the Foundation established the Leo Maddox Foundation Scholarship in Computer Science & Engineering to support Allen School undergraduate students in covering the cost of tuition and other educational expenses based on academic merit and financial need.
Learn more about the Leo Maddox Foundation Scholarships here and about Leo’s life and legacy here.