Stephen L. Schulze

January 9, 1963 - March 21, 2019

Stephen Larry Schulze fought a long and courageous battle against cancer, being first diagnosed in the 1980's, and never let it slow him down until his body couldn't keep up with his amazing spirit any longer, and he died peacefully on March 21, 2019 at Eaton Community Palliative Care. He was born January 9, 1963 to Larry and Rosella "Suzie" (Janousek) Schulze in Charlotte. A graduate of Charlotte High School in 1981, he received a full competitive scholarship to Lincoln Technical School in Indianapolis and completed a 2 year technical program in just 7 months. Less than 2 months after completing this program, he began work in Lansing at Atmosphere Annealing and had been there for 37 years. He loved everything mechanical, with his passion beginning at a very early age fixing his bicycle. In 1983 he married Karen Stevens, and she affectionately called him her "Handyman Special" because he loved working on everything and could figure out how to fix anything from bikes, motorcycles, and snowmobiles to large equipment. Mechanical work was his life, and he worked very hard to provide for his family. Stephen enjoyed working, learning interesting facts, watching the History Channel, swimming, helping others, and especially spending time with his family. Stephen is survived by his wife of 35 years, Karen; children, Jennifer Schulze and Larry (Alice) Schulze; grandchildren, Caleb, Morgan and Carter (due soon); parents, Larry and Suzie Schulze; sister, Danette Minnie; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Barbara Conklin. Friends are encouraged to support the Schulze family at visitation and funeral services. Funeral services are Monday, March 25, 2019, 1:00 PM at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating. Visitation is Sunday, March 24, 2-4:00 PM and 6-8:00 PM. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to SIREN/Eaton Shelter. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Stephen on his Tribute Page at www.PrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.