Dean Louis Schrauben

     Dean Louis Schrauben, age 68, of Fowler, MI, passed away suddenly Thursday, May 14, 2026, at McLaren Northern Michigan, Petoskey, MI.

    A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Fowler, MI, at 10:30 A.M. on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, with Rev. Fr. John Whitlock presiding. Burial will take place at Most Holy Trinity Cemetery, Fowler, MI. Visitation will be held on Monday, May 18, 2026, from 2:00-8:30 P.M.with family present from 2-4 & 5-8:30 P.M. at Smith Family Funeral Homes - Goerge Chapel, Fowler, MI with a Rosary being prayed at 8:00 P.M. at the funeral home.

     Dean was born in St. Johns, Michigan on June 15, 1957, the son of William P. and Glenna Jeanne (Willard) Schrauben. He was a graduate of Fowler High School. Dean married Susan Pohl on May 13, 1978, they were married at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Fowler, MI. He retired from General Motors and was a member of Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

     Dean was a loving and devoted husband to Sue, a proud father and grandfather, and a friend to all who knew him. Guided by deep faith and genuine kindness, he lived a life rooted in service, family, and community. He was an active member of Most Holy Trinity Parish, always happy to step in and help wherever he was most needed. Dean was a dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus and faithfully lived out the values of the Fourth Degree, which are Catholic citizenship and patriotism. Nothing brought Dean greater joy than his wife and family. He was his grandchildren’s biggest fans, always cheering them on, supporting their passions, and creating lasting memories through countless bike rides, cherry pit spitting contests, sleepovers, camping trips, playing ball, watching them compete and spending time together. His trademark smile, joyful spirit, and ability to make everyone feel seen and valued left a lasting impression on those he met. In Dean’s eyes everyone was a “good guy”. Dean was proud of his community and a devoted Fowler Eagle fan. His love of youth sports led him to officiate and coach. What he enjoyed most about coaching was helping players to develop not only as athletes but also emphasizing character on and off the court. He generously shared his time, faith, and his servant’s heart with others. He was always willing to stop for a conversation or eagerly lend a helping hand. A life beautifully lived for the Lord, Dean’s legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering positivity will continue to live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and those who knew him.

     He is survived by his wife Sue Schrauben; son Jeff and Codi Schrauben; daughter Nickie and Brett Thelen; daughter Kristie and Jon Thelen; son Scott and Nicole Schrauben; grandchildren: Lily, Vivian, Charlotte, Paige, Carter, Sawyer, Autumn, Jonah, Leah, Clara, Levi, Alexis, Silas, Reid, Collins, and Corinne; brother Bill Schrauben; sister Deb Franks; brother Don and Becky Schrauben; brother-in-law Stan and Patty Pohl; brother-in-law Al and Ellen Pohl; brother-in-law Jerome and Ann Marie Pohl; brother-in-law Mel and Pam Pohl; sister-in-law Marie and Cross; sister-in-law Cathy and John Leabu; sister-in-law Carol Crichton; sister-in-law Phyllis and Mark Ventocilla; many nieces and nephews. Dean was preceded in death by his parents, brother Gary Schrauben, sister-in-law Linda Schrauben, nephew Stephen Schrauben, in-laws Marian and Norbert Pohl, also his brothers-in-law Bob Pohl and Eric Cross.

     Memorials may be made to Shared Pregnancy Center of Lansing or Most Holy Trinity Educational Trust Fund. Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes - Goerge Chapel, Fowler, Michigan.