Lois E. Maira

Lois E. Maira passed away peacefully on Monday, April 7, 2025, at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital, leaving behind a legacy of love, joy, and dedication. Born on March 16, 1927, in Syracuse, NY, she was the cherished daughter of the late Monteath and Ethel (nee Weigand) Woolverton.

Lois pursued her passion for education, earning a teaching degree from Cortland University. She dedicated many years to shaping young minds within the City of Niagara Falls School District until her retirement. In addition to her teaching career, Lois was an entrepreneur, owning and operating Schnitzer Toy Parties, an at-home toy party company, for six years. Her business was so successful that she achieved $200,000 in sales in a single year. She also owned Dance Shoes by Lois. 

In the early 1970's, Lois embraced the art of ballroom dancing, competing and often triumphing in competitions, bringing grace and vibrancy wherever she went. Lois had an unwavering devotion to her family, treasuring every moment spent with them. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know and love her. She had a passion for playing/teaching piano, writing poetry and was a huge fan of the Buffalo Bills. 

She was preceded in death by her beloved husbands, Jake Valentino and Salvatore  Maira; and Theodore Schnitzer as well as three pf her loving children, Robert, Blair Schnitzer, Richard Schnitzer and Debra E. Bilson-Lewis; and her dear brother, Jack Woolverton.

She is survived by her loving children: Lynda Schnitzer, Dianne (Phill) Cotter, Heidi Travalgine, Gregg Schnitzer, and Lori (Don) Marshall. Lois was a cherished grandmother to 17 grandchildren and a proud matriarch to many adored great and great-great-grandchildren. She will also be fondly remembered by her dear sister, Mary Lou Ormond, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Lois's family will welcome friends on Thursday, April 10, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at HARDISON FUNERAL HOMES, INC., 3648 Ransomville Road, Ransomville. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 AM, and interment will take place at North Ridge Cemetery, Lockport.

Please share condolences and fond memories at HARDISONFUNERALHOMES.com.