In loving memory of

KENNETH H. SCHUSTER
May 16, 1941 - April 2, 2018

Kenneth Harold Schuster born May 16, 1941 to Walter P. Schuster and Irene Schmidt Schuster was called home by his Heavenly Father on April 2, 2018. He had been a resident at the D.J. Jacobetti home for Veterans for the last three years.

Kens early years were spent on the family farm in Beaver, Michigan. He loved the farm life. He attended a one room school in Beaver and after moving to Bay City he attended St Johns Lutheran School then graduated from T.L. Handy High in the top of his class. While still in school, Ken worked with his uncle Roland Schmidt laying brick. He also delivered trailers for his aunt Gert who owned a trailer sales company. After graduation, Ken served in the United States Air Force as a Chaplain's assistant and received an honorary degree from the University of Maryland. After his honorable discharge from the military, he moved to Pontiac, Michigan and worked there for the State of Michigan as a corrections officer. He then transferred to Shingleton, a minimum security camp, and worked in that same capacity. He also worked with the inmates on a Transactional Analysis program which is a technique for understanding ourselves and the way we relate to others.

Ken, also known as "The Little Professor" was a beloved son, trusted friend, protective brother, strong leader, creative artist, musician and avid wood turner. He married his wife and soul mate Chelle, and together they built their home in Wetmore on Lost Lake. They both had a passion for music and together with their dear friends Barney and Marilyn Ouellette they formed the Lost Lake Effect Band. They played music together, entertaining from here to Florida and having the time of their lives.

Ken faced many life challenges after a devastating stroke14 years ago that left him completely paralyzed on his right side. He never gave up working on his recovery and he did it with a wonderful attitude. He was upbeat and cheerful. He always said he was having fun and having a good day. He loved the outdoors and was a passionate protector of Monarch Butterflies and treated all living things with respect.

Ken is survived by his wife, Rochelle (Chelle) Schuster; brother, Ron Schuster of Texas; sister, Joyce (Les) Sheldon of Layton Utah; sisters-in-law, Dawn (John) Dott, Kay Hernandez, and Phyllis LaMere, all of Marquette.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter P. Schuster and Irene (Schmidt) Killey; brother, Gerald Schuster; nieces, Dawn and Diane; stepdaughter, Kelly French; and several aunts and uncles.

Visitation will be held on Monday, April 9, 2018 from 2 to 4 pm at the Canale-Tonella Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at 4 pm in the funeral home with Rev. Michael Carrier officiating. Military Honors will be provided by the Vietnam Veterans of America Negaunee Chapter. Interment will take place in Maple Grove Cemetery in Munising.

Kens obituary may also be viewed at canalefuneral.com where memories may be shared.

Tributes

Randy Scott Si Saatio wrote on Apr 9, 2018:

"Dearest sympathy to the Ken Schuster's relatives and friends . He will be missed here at D.J. Jacobetti Home For Veterans ( Our True Heroes ) . He was a Mr. social butterfly around the facility . He also enjoyed butterfly and milk weeds in the summer months . Ken will be among the angels in the paradise of heaven and will be a servant of God there looking over all of us . Randy Scott Si Saatio , ATA , ordained minister , Life member of Am/ Vets and a friend to all military veterans ."

Steve and Kristi Dausey wrote on Apr 8, 2018:

"Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. God bless."

Yvonne wrote on Apr 8, 2018:

"So many memories its hard to pick just one however, grandma said keep it short. Ken was one of the most creative, kindest, caring and definitely the most smartest men that ever crossed my path. His educational moments will forever be engraved in my memory. When you asked Ken a question, you knew to be prepared for the entire answer. Sometimes the full answer could be a couple hour event. Grandma can tell you about the hours he would spend educating me on criminal behaviors. Shes probably thinking what in the world is she talking about? I am talking about the countless hours he would spend reenacting prisoner behavior. He would tell me all the time how sneaky and untrusting prisoners could be. After talking about the prisoners he would go outside knock on the door to try and sell me random things, usually peanuts since he always had a can handy on the table next to his chair. We laughed so hard for countless hours. Ken has done so much for me in my life. When I was in high school I got a couple credit cards. Things were going great with the credit cards until I got hurt at work and was unable to work for a long period of time. Well as you can imagine not working led to financial problems. Ken could tell I was stressed one day and asked what was wrong. I finally told him that I had gotten credit cards and quit paying them because I didnt have any money and had to pay my car note with what I had it was priority. I was stressed because the collection agency kept calling and I was scared. Without hesitation he said dont worry Ill talk to grandma tonight and well devise a plan, and he did! He created a spreadsheet of what needed to be paid, said he was going to pay the cards off but there was stipulations. I was going to earn the money to pay back, I would need to settle on the cards, close the cards, and promise not to get anymore. This lesson in life was huge for me! To this day I still question myself before I use my credit card. Ken taught me nothings free, and most important you have to earn what you get in life. He taught me to be respectful, put others first, RESPONSIBILITY and that being a brat will never work in your favor. Looking back I dont recall one time i ever seen Ken put himself first, that just wasnt him! Sorry this was so long I have never been one to listen to my elders, sorry Gram! lol Me and the boys love you, and will miss you soooooo much... I am so happy you can now Rest In Peace. I look forward to seeing you again someday. Thank you for being who you were while you were here.... "

Dave Ouellette wrote on Apr 6, 2018:

"So sorry for your loss! He was such a talented great man!"

Lisa Cory wrote on Apr 5, 2018:

"So very sorry for your loss. Hugs and prayers. Lisa Cory"

Judy Ashby wrote on Apr 5, 2018:

"Chelle Please know that you are in my thoughts. I am still in CA and will not be able to visit you during this difficult time. Judy Ashby"