Passed away on July 8th after a year long battle with cancer and is finally at rest.
Michael R. Schaal was born in Wilmington Delaware on August 14th 1951. At the age of 15 he joined the Elsmere Fire Company where he dedicated over 50 years of service. Michael held several positions including Captain, Assistant Chief and most recently serving as Treasurer for over 40 years. After High School he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. Michael joined Elsmere Police Department in 1974, serving for six years before joining the Wilmington Fire Department in 1980. Michael proudly served the Wilmington Fire Department for 40 years, recently retiring as a Battalion Chief.
Michael was an avid Philadelphia sports fan, especially loving the Philadelphia Phillies. For the past 17 years Michael and his son went to Clearwater Florida for Spring Training where they were joined by many friends. He also enjoyed spending time with friends and family at the Delaware Beaches. Michael was a devoted family man and above anything else he loved and treasured time spent with his children and grandchildren. Some of his fondest memories were of family beach vacations, trips to Disney World and daily long phone conversations with his daughter. To his children and grandchildren he was a living hero.
Michael was survived by his wife of 29 years Christine E. Schaal; children, Jeffrey, and his wife, Bridget, and daughter, Jessica. Grandchildren Riley, Rian and Helen. Michael is also survived by sisters, Carol and Lee and brother, Matt.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the viewing for Michael at the Elsmere Fire Hall, 1107 Kirkwood Hwy,. Wilm., DE from 5pm - 8pm on Tuesday, July 13th. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church, 901 N Dupont St, Wilm., DE 19805, on Wednesday, July 14th at 11am. Interment will be at Cathedral Cemetery.
In Lieu of flowers please make contributions to the Elsmere Fire Company.
www.delawarefuneral.com