Iyawata (Britten) Schneider, 74, of Medway passed away peacefully on Monday, Nov. 21, 2016 following an extended illness at the home of a friend, with her husband and friends in attendance. She was the beloved wife of Norman Schneider for 47 years.
A native of Gloversville, New York, she moved with family to Auburn, Maine as a child. After graduation from University of Pennsylvania and Simmons College with degrees in political science and social work, she moved to Massachusetts.
She was an avid Cannon Mountain Skier from the late 60’s for many years at the Living End Lodge, Bethlehem, New Hampshire.
As the director of the Family Holistic Center in Medway for 10 years, she was active in the introduction and use of complementary healing practices as an educator and practitioner.
With roots in the Narragansett tribe, she was active in Native American communities in Massachusetts and Maine. She was a member of the Algonquin Medicine Society, the Wallomonuppoag Indian Council and the Dighton Intertribal Indian Council.
For years as a member of the Medway Historical Society, she performed frequently as famous American historical women.
There will be a Nikkoma potluck Social in honor of Iyawata’s life on December 3 at 5 p.m. at Goff Hall, 124 Bay State Rd., Rehoboth, MA. No cooking facilities available.
Milford’s Claflin Hill Symphony Orchestras December 10th Holiday Concert is being dedicated to Iyawata’s memory.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of the Ginley Crowley Funeral Home, 3 Barber St., Medway (www.ginleyfuneralhomes.com).