| Notes |
- September 7, 2008
Schmalz, Michael John
Michael John Schmalz born Oct. 1, 1958, in Appleton, Wis., enjoyed a life well lived for Christ until Friday Sept. 5, 2008, when cancer overtook his body, but not his spirit. He was born to Darwin Lawrence and Johanna Catherine (Evers) Schmalz. He grew up in Kaukauna with six siblings whom he loved dearly. Mark (Sue) Schmalz, Debbie (Dave) Maier, Cheri (Glen) Sprangers, Paula (Dave) Mayer, Scott (Carla) Schmalz and Julie(Paul) Moderson. He spent his childhood years on the landscaping farm his dad owned and operated on VandenBroeck Road. Mike played football in high school for Kaukauna till 1976 when he graduated, and he has loved the sport since. Though he followed his dad's passion for the Chicago Bears, he enjoyed the banter about football with his many Packers friends. At the age of 19, Mike had a life changing experience with Jesus Christ and committed his life to living for Him. A few years later, Mike met the love of his life, Penny Lynne Vanderlois at a church campground meeting and married her exactly one year to the day of their first date. They were married on June 20, 1981. The great accomplishments of Mike's life will live on in many ways, but the one he is proudest of are his three beautiful "babies" as he so fondly called them. Although his children have grown to be capable young adults, he always referred to them as his babies; Levi John was his first born, Luke Michael his second, and Brooke Catherine Lois his third child. These children brought immeasurable joy to his life. Mike loved his wife Penny with a passion, and did whatever he could to make her dreams come true. Thus they traveled often across the globe to many destinations; including the Caribbean Islands, Jamaica, Hawaii, Mexico, Guatemala, Ireland, Britain, France, Italy, Germany and many other places. Several of these trips were for missions purposes. Mike built homes as a hobby and a way to help other people and churches. As a result, the Schmalz family moved seven times in ten years, upgrading their duplexes and homes each time. Mike's passion, second only to his love for his wife and children, was building a church. Not just the building, but the people. Mike and Penny began the adventure of a life in ministry shortly after they were married when Mike was 23 and Penny was 19. Together they taught many home Bible studies to families across the Fox Cities. Additionally, they also counseled people with addictions and marriage problems and helped people get on their feet financially. Mike completed his studies in theology through Indiana Bible College earning his Master's degree in theology and received his ministerial credentials through the United Pentecostal Church International.
In 1983, Mike built and founded Apostolic Truth Church in Little Chute. The church grew and needed a building addition before moving to 2720 Kesting Ct. in Appleton in 1995. The congregation continued to grow and went through many transitions including the appointment of Rev. Aaron and Heather Soto as co-pastors in January 2007. Many friendships were forged through Mike's 25 years of service. Many people became dear friends and partnered with Pastor Schmalz's vision. Mike baptized, counseled, helped, married and buried not only Apostolic Truth Church members, but anyone who asked. Because of his great desire to serve God and see new churches planted in cities all across Wisconsin, he was voted to be the state Home Missions Director. He carried out his duties not only with administrative and financial skill, but with wisdom and passion for over 20 years. Pastor Schmalz is loved and missed by not only his church family, but many young ministers across the state.
A word from Penny:
Pastor Aaron and Heather Soto have been solid friends and helpers throughout this cancer ordeal. The Apostolic Truth Church family, state and nationwide ministers have offered unbelievable amounts of support, prayer and help. Mike and our family have been humbled by the outpouring of love that was displayed. It would be impossible to thank everyone adequately for all they have done, and we can only pray blessings be returned to the many people who have been so kind to us. I wish to especially thank our hospice nurse, Rachel, for her many kind words and gentle care of Mike.
The one thing that Mike would want remembered is this: God is good and no matter what, the greatest life is the Christian life!
A funeral service for Pastor Schmalz will be held at 12 noon on Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2008, at Apostolic Truth Church, (2720 Kesting Court, Appleton). Visitation for Pastor Schmalz will be held from 6:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 8, 2008, at the church; visitation will continue on Tuesday at the church from 10 a.m. until the hour of service. Pastor Schmalz will be laid to rest at Riverside Cemetery.
VALLEY
FUNERAL HOME
2211 N. Richmond Street
Appleton, WI 54911
920-733-5435
www.valleyfh.com
"Serving as would
be Served"
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1958 - 2008 (49 years)
