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In Memoriam: John Schneider, Tingue, Brown & Co. (Ret.)

Company says he was pivotal in Western U.S. expansion

PEACHTREE CITY, Ga. — Tingue, a provider of commercial laundry solutions, reports that former West Regional Sales Manager John Schneider died in May. He was 90 years old.

Schneider lived a rich and impactful life, Tingue says, marked by dedication to his family and an enduring passion for his work. He was immensely proud of his years with Tingue, Brown & Co., where he served until his retirement in 2000. 

Schneider often spoke fondly of Tingue in his later years — not just as a place of work, but as a community that gave him the freedom to grow and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully. Even in his final days, his love for the company and its people never waned.

Tingue says that during his tenure, Schneider played a pivotal role in expanding its presence throughout the Western United States, including Alaska, Hawaii, and into Mexico. He was instrumental in developing what are now some of the company’s most important territories. 

He helped build the Polytrux business from the ground up in the Western region, championed the expansion of Talley Machinery operations, and advocated early for key safety and productivity innovations — including inverter drives and roll-raising rigs — long before they became industry standards.

“John Schneider was a pillar of support, fairness, and dedication — not just to our company, but to the entire laundry industry,” says David Tingue, CEO. “He led with quiet strength and integrity, always putting others before himself and the business ahead of ego. 

“John was someone I looked up to, especially in my early years. His guidance, encouragement and example shaped how I approach leadership to this day. We were all better for having him in our corner.”

The company says Schneider was a trusted partner to industry giants such as Mission Linen, Aramark/Vestis, Angelica, and Alsco, and a proponent for many small operators. His influence helped establish the enduring relationships that continue to sustain and grow the business today.

To many, he was more than a sales manager. He was a mentor, a coach and a friend. David Tingue, Ty Acton, and many others count themselves fortunate to have learned under his guidance.

Schneider’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the relationships he built, and the vision he helped shape.

In Memoriam - John Schneider, Tingue, Brown & Co

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