Kent Schnakenberg

Kent Douglas Schnakenberg of Emporia, Kansas passed away on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita Kansas. He was 71 years old.

Kent was born on January 16, 1955, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Norman “Bud” and Mildred Griffin Schnakenberg. He married the love of his life, Natalie Larson, on June 21, 1980, in Emporia at his parents’ home. Together they built a life centered on family, faith, friendship, and service to others.

Kent never met a stranger. He had a remarkable ability to connect with people, make them feel welcome, and leave them better than he found them. Whether through his work, his friendships, his community involvement, or simply showing up when someone needed help, Kent made a lasting impact on countless lives.

Above all else, Kent was devoted to his family. In every role he held - husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, or friend - he poured his heart into the people he loved. His family was his greatest joy and the accomplishment he treasured most. He celebrated their successes, supported them through challenges, and was always the steady presence they could count on. His grandchildren brought him endless pride, and he cherished every opportunity to spend time with them.

An avid outdoorsman, Kent found peace and happiness in nature. He loved fishing, hunting, cycling, and spending time outdoors. Some of his happiest moments were spent enjoying the simple things in life. Whether he was fishing, riding his bike, mowing the lawn, or simply spending time with family and friends, Kent found joy in everyday moments and the people he loved most.

Kent dedicated a significant part of his life to supporting children and families affected by Type 1 diabetes. Through Team Schnak, he worked tirelessly to raise awareness, build community, and provide encouragement to those navigating the challenges of the disease. He had a special gift for connecting with families, offering hope, and reminding them they were never alone. His impact reached far beyond Emporia and touched countless lives across the country.

Kent was larger than life. He was the person people called for advice, encouragement, or simply a laugh. He led with generosity, strength, and compassion, and he made people feel seen, valued, and loved. His absence leaves an immeasurable void, but his legacy lives on in the family he adored, the friends he cherished, and the countless lives he touched.

Kent is survived by his wife, Natalie Schnakenberg of Emporia; his son, Trent (Andi) Schnakenberg of Kansas City, Missouri; his daughter, Paige (Colby) Rankin of Morrison, Colorado; his grandchildren, Taytum Rose Schnakenberg, Kobie Daniel Schnakenberg, Mia Jean Schnakenberg, Marley Jean Rankin, and Porter Norman Rankin; his mother, Mildred Schnakenberg of Emporia; his brothers, Mark (Ann) Schnakenberg of Emporia and Michael (Terri) Schnakenberg of Sugar Land, Texas; his sister, Debbie (Ken) Redeker of Olpe; along with many extended family members, dear friends, and countless lives touched through his work and service to others.

He was preceded in death by his father, Norman E. “Bud” Schnakenberg.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, June 29, 2026, at the Granada Theatre in Emporia, Kansas. In honor of Kent, guests are encouraged to wear their favorite Team Schnak apparel or come dressed casually

Memorial contributions may be made to the Team Schnak Strong Fund, which supports children and families affected by Type 1 diabetes. Contributions may be mailed to:

Emporia Community Foundation

527 Commercial Street, Suite B

Emporia, KS 66801

https://www.emporiacf.org/donate/Team-Schnak