Obituary of Harold Schaller

Harold Clarence Schaller was born in Otter Lake, Michigan on September 23, 1921. He was the son of the late William and Velma Elizabeth (Schilke) Schaller. Harold served his country honorably in the European Theatre during World War II as a member of the United States Army, 104th Cavalry. He obtained the rank of E5. He married the former Helen Mary Mrofchak on January 22, 1949. Harold had a passion for trains and travel. For thirty-six years he worked for the B&O and C&O Railroads, known as the Chessie System, starting out as a fireman, brakeman and retiring as a Conductor. Even when not working he enjoyed traveling by train and collecting trains. Harold operated the LaSalle Motel from 1967-1974. He enjoyed listening to the Grand Ole Opry and Paul Harvey on WJR. He was a lifetime member of the Birch Run (MI) VFW. One of his proudest moments was participating in the dedication of the National World War II Memorial in Washington, DC in 2004. Harold loved antique tractors and was an Allis Chalmers fanatic. Harold was the Original Shade Tree Mechanic. He could fix anything and everything. He was a member of St. Michael Church. Harold Schaller age 89 of LaSalle passed away peacefully Saturday, September 3, 2011 at his home. He had been under the care of Mercy Memorial Hospice. In addition to his parents, his passing was preceded by siblings: Lillian Rappuhn, William, Melbourne, Arnold, and Linwood Schaller. To cherish his memory he leaves a wife, Helen of LaSalle, children: Mari A. (William) Broman of LaSalle, John (Debbie) of TN, Jan (Mark) Ryder of Monroe, Carol "Sue" (Jerry) Coolman of FL, Kathryn Schaller of CA, Tom (Theresa) of Jacksonville, FL, Theresa (Michael) Hodgkin of Denver, CO, and Lisa (Kevin) Sindall of Denver, CO; fifteen grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Friends may gather for the Mass of the Resurrection at Noon on Saturday, September 24, 2011 at St. Michael Church, 502 West Front, Father Stephen Vileo officiating. Burial will take place at LaSalle Township Cemetery. A luncheon will follow at church for all in attendance. Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe (734) 384-5185 has been entrusted with his arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the family. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort by visiting www.merklefs.com; Online Tributes page.