Kelly J. Schaale, 66, of Coldwater passed away peacefully Monday, September 7, 2026 at University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor.
A memorial service will take place at Dutcher Funeral Home in Coldwater Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at 11:00 a.m.
A gathering of family and friends will be held at the funeral home Monday, September 21, 2026 from 3:00–7:00 p.m. Interment will take place at a later date.
Kelly was born October 19, 1959, in Sturgis, Michigan, to Gary A. and Norma J. (Hopkins) Snyder. She graduated from Bronson High School in 1977 and attended Michigan State University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree.
Kelly dedicated nearly 36 years of her life to teaching art in Quincy, where she was able to share her creativity and love of art with generations of students.
Kelly met the love of her life, Bob Schaale, and the two were married May 21, 1994. Together, they built a life filled with family, travel, laughter, and countless memories.
Kelly was a member of Moose Lodge #677 and had a love for many things in life. She especially enjoyed 4-H and horses, painting watercolor gifts for others, craft shows, decorating, garage sales, shopping, boating, and going to lunch with family and friends.
She loved traveling, including girls’ trips, their yearly trips to Florida, and her adventures in Europe. Above all, Kelly treasured her family and the time she spent with the people she loved.
Kelly was incredibly talented and creative, but those who knew her will remember her just as much for the kind and thoughtful person she was. She had a fun spirit and a way of making ordinary moments special. And, of course, Kelly loved her sparkles. Whether it was something she created, decorated, or simply something that caught her eye, a little sparkle always seemed to belong in Kelly’s world.
Kelly leaves behind her loving husband, Bob Schaale; her children, Alex Schaale and Chloe Schaale; her parents, Gary and Norma Snyder; her sister, Lisa (Joe) Guzy; sister-in-law, Debby Oliver; and her very special friend, Annette Szafranski. She is also survived by her aunts, Donna Smith and Connie Johnson; nieces and nephews, Sean (Kelsee) Guzy, Tyler Guzy, Stacy (Cody) Kehoe, Bryar, Ivy, and Wren; along with her many beloved cousins.
Kelly was preceded in death by her grandparents, Ken and Boka Hopkins, and her mother-in-law, Brigette Gibbs.
Kelly will be deeply missed by her family, friends, former students, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her kindness, creativity, thoughtfulness, and love for life will remain in the hearts of those she leaves behind.
Memorial donations may be directed to the Humane Society of Branch County.
Arrangements are being cared for by Dutcher Funeral Home in Coldwater.
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