Derek Matthew Schanz, 35 of Allegan MI, was born on April 7th, 1988, and went to be with his Lord and Savior December 25th, 2023. Derek grew up in rural Allegan. As a young child he was often seen helping his Grandpa on the farm. Some Saturday nights Derek could be found staying up late making hay forts in the barn loft, and Sunday mornings at Merson church. Derek was so curious, imaginative, and creative. He looked at the world with wonder. He was always building and creating. Sometimes taking things apart to see how they worked. There are so many Derek stories that would fill books. He always made us smile and laugh. He was fiercely protective of his family. Derek enjoyed Grandma's gravy sandwiches and rhubarb pie. Derek's happiness growing up was with all his grandparents, on the farms, and at the lake. Derek grew up at Merson church, an active participant in many church activities and events including the annual Pinewood Derby. Derek made a profession of faith at an early age and was baptized at Camp Kidwell around age 10. Derek briefly attended Otsego Baptist Academy, was homeschooled, and then attended Allegan Public School's with class of 2007. During his teenage years, Derek loved riding ATVs with friends, hunting with his family, helping out at his Dad's shop, playing video games with his siblings, and also secretly enjoyed watching Dragon Ball Z and Powderpuff Girls with them. Derek was a jack of all trades as seen through his various jobs over the years: heat treatment, tire changer, tree cutting business, mechanic, construction, roofing, fireman, etc. Losing his Grandpa Marion left a huge hole in his heart, and we know that he was greeted with open arms in heaven by him.

Derek is survived by daughters, Millie and Billie Jo Schanz; parents, Timothy Schanz and Bonnie Cutler; siblings, Jason Schanz, Khrystie (Brock) Sheffer; nephews, Kenny Sheffer, Bentley and Landon Schanz; nieces, Khandice and Khalianna Sheffer; and Grandparents, Gary and Phyllis Rogers and Grandfather Ronald Cutler; along with aunts, uncles and cousins.

Derek was preceded in death by Grandparents Marion and Shirley Schanz.

The family will have Derek's visitation at Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, this Saturday, December 30th, 2023, from 12:00pm - 1:00pm with a funeral service starting at 1:00pm by Pastor Carson. Following the service will be interment in Mallory Cemetery at 2:30pm.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Derek's name to Merson Church at 3313 102nd Avenue, Gobles, Michigan 49055.