Alan James Schut

Alan James Schut, age 75 of Orangeville, passed away on Saturday, April 4, 2026 in his home. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 56 years, Patricia Schut; children April (Todd) Kamphuis, Emmarie (Edward) Kastelz, Jared (Tina) Schut, Alex (Amber) Schut; brother, Gary (Lee) Schut; 14 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, cousins, the employees at SZS Fasteners, and all of his card playing friends.

Alan had an exceptional life that was filled with accomplishments and wonderful memories. He worked in the muck as a child, making 25 cents an hour while dodging blue racers and picking onions. He was the youngest store manager of Zody’s and even had a grand opening of his store while wearing a cowboy hat. He sold women’s lingerie as a “no-nonsense pantyhose man." He stocked shoes at FMS shoes and became a business owner with Vess Soda. Despite his best efforts, all of these companies proved to be less than fruitful. It was not until his wife prayed to St. Joseph, that Alan was able to get a job as a salesman at SZS Fasteners. He spent the rest of his life building the company and setting the foundation to make it what it is today. He loved his employees and his customers. He constantly laughed at his own jokes, loved to drive his royal blue Ford F-150, and give the perfect business advice of “buy low - sell high."

Even though Alan took pride in his work, it came nowhere near to his greatest joy in life--his family. He was a truly great father. He spent much of his time taking his grandchildren out for “Al’s day off”--visiting museums, zoos, amusement parks, movie theaters, and Build-a-Bear workshop. He loved to ride ATVs, travel, go out to eat, watch movies, play Euchre, and smoke cigars. He was a devout member of the Roman Catholic Church. He thought Sunday was the greatest day of the week, because he could go to church, have Sunday dinner with the family, and spend the rest of the day playing cards.

Visitation will be held from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, April 9, 2026 at Cook Funeral Home in Byron Center, 2067 84th St. SW, Byron Center, Michigan. Mass of Christian burial will be held 11 a.m. Friday, April 10, 2026 at SS Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church, 159 131st Ave., Wayland, MI 49348, with visitation from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Catholic Relief Services, P.O. Box 17152, Baltimore, MD 21298-8452. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresbyron.com in their online guestbook.

We find comfort in knowing that Dad's legacy lives on through the lessons he taught us, the love he shared, and the memories we will cherish forever. Well done, good and faithful servant. You have experienced a life well lived.