Michael J. Schaller established the Michael J. Schaller Scholarship Fund in honor of his father, James A. Schaller.
James was a lifelong educator in the Menomonee Falls school system that had a profound influence on all he taught. His dedication to his students and education set him apart from all others, making him a true figure of inspiration for all around him. It’s that inspiration that lives on through this scholarship fund, so future generations of students continue to benefit from further education.
Schaller, Michael James Son of Marilyn J. and the late James A. Schaller, passed away on May 26, 2011, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Michael was born on May 11, 1957, the youngest of three children. He is also survived by his two sisters, Cynthia Eller (Helmut) of Germany and Rebecca Schaller, of Oconomowoc; by a niece, Cara Lavinia Sonnenborn (Florian) of Hamburg; a number of cousins, and a special friend, Michaelen Krombach. Michael had many exceptional friends, including Ron Kohl, Todd Dacquisto, Bob Hume and Mark Poggensee. He enjoyed life to the fullest in the company of his classmates, fraternity brothers and business associates.
Mike spent his early years in Menomonee Falls, where he graduated from Good Shepherd Grade School and Menomonee Falls North High School. He recieved a B.A. Degree in Communication Arts from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Mike pursued many opportunities in his business career, but focused mainly on various sales positions, leading to his becoming a National Sales Manager with extensive travel throughout the United States. He was also an avid sports fan, and had a phenomenal memory of names, dates and teams. He lived in Dallas, Texas and St. Louis, Missouri, until he moved to Oconomowoc in retirement.
Michael was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at the age of 37, and then, the final shock came in February, when an aggressive pancreatic tumor was discovered. His family is thankful for the wonderful care he received from his caretaker, Dee Dee, and the hospice nurses, Aimee, Emily, Debbie and Maria, who gave him such comfort in his last days.