Fusion Audio + Video is mourning the unexpected loss of its vice president of service Mike Schnaiter, a foundational team member whose contributions helped shape the company’s culture and client-first reputation over the past two decades.
Schnaiter, who served as Fusion AV’s first employee, played an instrumental role in building the integrator’s service department from the ground up. His career at Fusion spanned more than 20 years, during which time he became a beloved leader, a dependable teammate, and a central figure in the company’s growth and success.
“It’s with deep sadness that we share the unexpected passing of our vice president of service Mike Schnaiter,” the company announced on social media. “Mike was Fusion’s first employee and an essential part of our team from the very beginning. For more than two decades, he poured his heart into every client relationship, project, and teammate.”
Aaron Cowden, partner and CEO of Fusion AV, reflected on Schnaiter’s unwavering work ethic and the impact he had both professionally and personally.
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“At work, Mike was always one of the hardest working people I’d ever met,” Cowden said. “You could always count on Mike to jump right in and take on the hard work. He was diligent, consistent, and committed to his team. I’d run into him after hours some nights at Fusion and literally have to tell him to go home, and it wasn’t because he was a workaholic. It was because he cared so much for our clients and for prospering our team at Fusion.”
Cowden added, “He was team member #1 at Fusion. He was steady and focused when he needed to be and fun and goofy all in between. He took that same attitude home to his family, where he was one of the most amazing dads I knew.”
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Known for leading with empathy and strength, Schnaiter built lasting relationships with clients and colleagues alike. He was described by the Fusion AV team as a true friend and mentor who brought laughter, loyalty, and leadership to every interaction.
“He was a devoted husband, a proud father of two, and a true friend who showed up when it mattered most,” the company shared. “Mike lived life to the fullest and brought strength, laughter, and unwavering support to the Fusion family every single day. His legacy lives on in the way we serve our clients, support one another, and lead with care, just as he always did.”
Schnaiter’s passing leaves a profound void at Fusion AV and in the wider custom integration community, where his dedication and kindness will be remembered for years to come.
During Schnaiter’s tenure, Fusion AV won several CE Pro Home of the Year Awards, and Schnaiter was a respected attendee of the Total Tech Summit community.
A fundraiser organized for Schaniter’s wife and children has already raised more than $40,000.
