Grandpa Bob

Bob Schneider

Two years ago Bob Schneider brought his granddaughter, Danika, to Valley Christian School on the first day of kindergarten as planned. Bob and his wife, Gloria, had been raising their granddaughter together because Danika’s mother was unable to care for her after an accident. Unknown to any of the staff, Gloria had died of cancer that August.

At school he is known as Grandpa Bob. As a room parent, he can be found listening to children read, helping the teachers and video taping programs. Grandpa Bob always has a smile as he escorts Danika to school, piano lessons, dance and church activities.

When we celebrated Mother’s Day last year, I could see tears in Danika’s eyes. I asked Grandpa Bob how he was doing. He said, “I can’t be everything to her, but she’s everything to me.”

He has touched our lives with his love for this charming little girl. When Danika comes striding into school with her bright smile and bouncing curls (which Grampa Bob has learned to curl), I am reminded there are real heroes today.

MEMO: If you would like to nominate someone as an Everyday Hero, write a short essay between 100 and 200 words telling us about your hero and send it to: Everyday Hero, The Spokesman-Reveiw, P.O. Box 2160, Spokane WA 99210-1615.