SAATHOFF, K. CHAD, of Blanchard, died unexpectedly at Covenant Hospital Thursday, December 15, 2016, at the age of 43.

Born March 14, 1973, in Reed City, the youngest child of Wilbur “Bill” and Betty Saathoff. Chad was a 1992 graduate of Chippewa Hills Schools and of Ferris State University in 2003. Chad proudly served our country 25 years from 1991 to present in the United States Army and Michigan National Guard, specializing in helicopter aviation maintenance and operation. His military career included deployments to Korea, Hungary, and Kosovo. Chad married his high school sweetheart, Kari, December 30, 1995, and loved raising his three fantastic boys, Eli, Gage, and Tanner. As a member of the Mt Pleasant Community Church, Chad faithfully enjoyed serving as a tech team volunteer and hanging out with his small group family. Chad’s favorite hobby was spending time with his boys, volunteering as their coach, and biggest fan at sporting events.

Chad is survived by his wife, Kari; sons, Eli, Gage, and Tanner; sisters, Dena (John) Durante of Mecosta, Robin Saathoff of Shepherd and Kipp Saathoff of Largo, Fl; mother and father-in-law Bob and Jean Krieger of Remus; brothers and sisters-in-law Ryan and Kati Howard of St. Joseph and Jay and Kelli Williams of Waldron; numerous nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Preceding him in death were his parents and brother, Billy.

Friends and family may share a special memory during visitation at Clark Family Funeral Chapel on Sunday, December 18, 2016, from 4 to 8 p.m. and at the church Monday, December 19, from 10 a.m. until the time of service. A Celebration of Life Service will be held in Chad’s honor at the Mt. Pleasant Community Church on Monday, December 19, at 11 a.m. with Pastor Alan Cullen officiating. A Luncheon will immediately follow at the church. A private Committal Service will be follow. In lieu of flowers, monetary gifts can be given to the Saathoff Boys' Education Fund at Isabella Bank. Envelopes will be available at the funeral chapel and the church.

Affiliations

American
Army
National Guard