Obituary of Michael Donald Schnell

Michael Donald Schnell, also known as “Spanky,” of Rhodes peacefully passed away surrounded by family on February 26, 2026 at the age of 73. Michael was born in Bay City, Michigan to the late Donald and Arlene (Liebrecht) Schnell on June 10, 1952. He was baptized into faith on July 6, 1952 at St. John’s Lutheran in Midland. Michael grew up in the Auburn area and graduated from Bay City Central in 1972. He later went on to work at the Michigan Sugar Company as a control room operator and retired in 2013 after serving over 35 years. Michael enjoyed feeding his “pets” that would visit his deck, telling jokes, collecting trinkets, and enjoying a nice cold Budweiser while listening to his dad’s country music or Johnny Cash in his pole barn.

He is survived by his children, Misty (Michael) Krotzer, Amy (David) Black, Jennifer (Joe Gerring) Schnell and Jason (Tabitha) Hasse; grandchildren, Gabriel and Adriana Krotzer and Riley Black; his brother, Timothy Schnell; sisters, Cherylann (Lyle Ross) Trudell and Sandra (Dennis) Gerhauser; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Michael is also survived by the mother of his daughters, Anna (Ivey) Schnell. He was predeceased by his sister Cathrine in 1952.

A graveside ceremony will be held at Floral Gardens Cemetery in Bay City at a later date. Michael’s daughters would like to thank all who have supported them during this difficult time and give a special thanks to his brother Tim and cousin Paul Wilson for all the assistance they provided. Dad your JAM girls love you so much and will miss you dearly, rest in peace. 

Per Michael’s request cremation has taken place and arrangements were made with the Cremation Society of Mid-Michigan in Bay City MI. To sign the online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com