Neil Arthur Schilke

Neil attended Cornell University and graduated with a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in 1963. He remained very involved with Cornell serving on many advisory university committees and most recently was serving as the president of his alumni class. He married the love of his life, Ro, and moved to Michigan to work for General Motors Research Labs. He is survived by his wife, his two wonderful children Kevin (Meadowlyn), Karen and his 4 grandsons Zachary, Jeremy, Nolan and Peyton.

He had a phenomenal career with General Motors for 40 years and touched the lives of many people both here in Michigan and Canada where he served as General Director of Engineering & Product Planning for GM of Canada for almost 5 years.

He was an active member of SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) and served as its 2001 International President traveling around the world promoting SAE research, standards and various programs such as A World in Motion. Neil retired in 2003 and started a consulting firm for SAE called ARI (Automotive Resource Institute). Neil would describe this as “the dating game” matching retired engineers with companies that needed specific skills and knowledge.

Neil loved all sports and had a TV in every room so as not to miss a Red Wings goal, a Lions touchdown, a Tigers homerun, or a 3-pointer by the Pistons.

He loved to run with his buddies, ran 2 Marathons, loved to ski with family and friends, loved to golf, returned to bowling during winter months, and loved to walk with the ‘Wednesday Walking Group’.

Neil was a very loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend and will be missed by all! May he rest in peace!

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2 – 6 pm at Pine Knob Mansion, 5580 Waldon Road, Clarkston, MI.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Oakland Family Services.