Obituaries

Wayne Andrew Shooltz, age 87, of Paradise, Michigan, died on April 1, 2026, at his home
surrounded by his loving family. He was born on December 29, 1938, in Lansing, Michigan, to
Alwin Francis and Ruby Mae (Aldridge) Shooltz.

Wayne was raised in Lansing, where he spent his early years and formed the foundation of the
life he would go on to build. It was there that he met the love of his life, Marilyn “Merl” Monk.

Following Wayne’s honorable discharge from the military, the two were united in marriage in
February of 1960. Together, they shared a lifetime of love and partnership, raising three daughters and creating a home filled with care, laughter, and lasting memories.

After many visits to the Upper Peninsula, Wayne and his family fell in love with the natural beauty and peacefulness of Paradise. In the 1990s, they made the decision to make it their permanent home, where Wayne would spend many happy years enjoying the outdoors and the quiet life he cherished.

Wayne found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved fishing and hunting, spending time on the trails, and taking pride in keeping his lawn just right. He especially enjoyed sharing meals of venison with friends and family. Above all, Wayne treasured the time he spent with his loved ones, particularly his granddaughter Emma, with whom he shared many special moments.

Wayne will be remembered for his love of family, his appreciation for nature, and the steady, kind presence he brought to those around him.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Marilyn; daughters, Deborah Brown, and Patricia Schutt;
grandchildren, Jessica (Erin) Thorton, Dustin Schutt, Claire Kearns, and Emma (Kevin) Nichols;
great-grandchild, Annabella Thorton; and brother, LaVern Shooltz.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Sharon Shooltz; parents, Alwin and Ruby; sisters;
June Madden and Elaine Wallace; and brothers, William Shooltz and Douglas Shooltz.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Wayne’s final resting place will be at Our Lady of Victory Cemetery in Paradise, Michigan.

Family Life Funeral Homes – Sault Ste. Marie assisted the family with arrangements.

Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.