Kent Schnell

Robert "Kent" Schnell, 83, passed away at his home on July 11, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born in Des Moines, Iowa on September 12, 1942, to Robert and Clara (Larsen) Schnell. Kent grew up in Des Moines and graduated from Roosevelt High School. His love of cars was his passion in life. After serving in the National Guard, he went to work for Naylor Body Shop and later started his own business at Schnell Automotive.

He married Christine (Catterson) Schnell in 1966 and they welcomed 3 children: Bryan, Leah, and Melissa. He and Chris enjoyed traveling to car shows with friends in his 1934 Dodge delivery. He was a member of the Iowa Street Rod Association and the Good Guys Car Club.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother-in-law, Bob Tellefsen; nephew, Scott Tellefsen; and his in-laws, the Cattersons.

He is survived by his wife, Christine; son, Bryan; daughters, Leah Cone and Melissa (Shawn) Barry; five grandchildren, Jacob (Jasmine) Cone, Alyssa Cone, Kylee, Morgan and Jaxon Barry; one great grandchild, Graydon Cone; sister, Linda Tellefsen; brother, Dave (Jan) Schnell, sister-in-law, Barbara Bauer; and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, August 2, 2026, from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm at the Urbandale Senior Recreation Center, 7305 Aurora Avenue, Urbandale Iowa. Friends are encouraged to bring their classic vehicles.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa in honor of Kent’s love of animals.

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