Otto Schnellbacher II

Otto Ole Schnellbacher II, age 74, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away on January 18, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Otto was born November 4, 1951, as an answered prayer to Otto Ole Schnellbacher and Theresa Renner Schnellbacher. He attended Most Pure Heart of Mary Elementary School and graduated from Hayden High School in 1970. Otto spent his summers with family at their cabin on Lake Geneva in Alexandria, Minnesota. The little red cabin would forever be his happy place. Otto married Jeannie Swalwell in 1974 and they welcomed 2 children, Otto Schnellbacher III (Traye), and Nicole Schnellbacher McCoy. A natural salesman, Otto worked alongside his father in the life insurance industry at Schnellbacher and Associates. In his later years, he began selling cars, combining his sales background and his love of automobiles. As a car enthusiast, Otto spent many years as member of the Topeka Corvette Club, where he forged lifelong friendships. Otto had a knack for all things mechanical and restored several cars throughout his years, including a beloved 1957 Chevy. Along with cars, Otto had a love for antiques and found purpose in restoring items to their original glory. In his later years, he began collecting antique electric fans amassing an impressive assortment that led him to a new community of like-minded enthusiasts….his “fan friends.” An annual highlight of his year was attending “Fan Fest” with his dear friends. Otto was a loyal Jayhawk, and he spent many years cheering on his beloved team with family and friends. As a father, Otto enjoyed sharing his hobbies with his children, and teaching them everything they ever wanted to know about fishing, cars, classic rock and antiques. A child at heart, Otto reached legendary Dad status by buying full-size arcade games when Showbiz Pizza closed, much to the delight of his children. He passed along his love of fishing to his son Traye, and gift of gab to his daughter Nicole. Otto found immense joy in becoming “Grandpa Otto” even dressing up as Obi-Wan Kenobi one Halloween with the kids. He was adored by his grandchildren. Otto is survived by his children, Traye Schnellbacher and Nicole (Tully) McCoy; grandchildren Tully and Rory McCoy; his sister, Mary T. Decker; and numerous other loving relatives. Otto was preceded in death by his parents, Otto and Theresa Schnellbacher, his brother Brad Schnellbacher, and his brother-in-law, Nick Decker. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to the University of Kansas Marching Band, and send in care of Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home at 2801 Urish Road Topeka, KS 66614. If you would rather, please honor Otto’s memory with a thoughtful act of kindness towards someone in need. Otto never knew a stranger, and any community Otto was part of, was made better because of his kind and genuine nature. He will be forever missed. There is no service planned at this time. Condolences may be sent online to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com

Otto Schnellbacher II

November 4, 1951 - January 18, 2026