Dwight G. Schaberg

With profound sadness but boundless gratitude for a life well-lived, we honor the legacy of our father, Dwight, who passed away on February 10, 2025. Though we grieve his loss, we take comfort in knowing that his love, wisdom, and kindness will forever remain with us—and that he is now reunited with his beloved wife, Patricia, in heaven.

Dwight was more than a father; he was a force of nature. A protector, a mentor, a man whose presence commanded both respect and warmth. He lived with an unwavering sense of purpose, filling every room with his infectious laughter, wise advice, and boundless love. Whether through his steadfast support, his words of encouragement, or simply the strength of his embrace, he made sure that everyone around him felt valued, safe, and deeply loved.

Born on February 1, 1943, to Woodrow and Ellen Schaberg in Lansing, MI, Dwight was built from the foundation of hard work, integrity, and perseverance. A proud graduate of Eastern High School’s class of 1961, he answered the call to serve his country, first as a Marine and later as a member of the U.S. Army National Guard. His sense of duty and honor carried through into every chapter of his life, including a dedicated career at General Motors, where he retired after years of service. But no title or professional achievement ever mattered more to him than being a husband, father, and grandfather.

A devoted husband to Patricia, Dwight was the kind of partner who set the gold standard for love and loyalty. As a father to Patrick (Kelli) and Matthew (Suzzane), he led by example—teaching the values of resilience, generosity, and perseverance. His role as a grandfather to Bailey, Ryan, Peighton, and Quinn brought him immeasurable joy, and his love left an indelible mark on his siblings—Delores (John), Dennis (Vicki), Doug (Sheila), and Kevin (Jeanna)—as well as his nephews, Tim (Monica), Steffen (Emily), and Chad (Chelsea).

Dwight was also surrounded by a circle of lifelong friends who became like family—those who shared in his laughter, his stories, and his unwavering loyalty. You know who you are, and you know how much you meant to him. His presence was a gift, and his impact on those lucky enough to call him a friend will never fade.

A die-hard Michigan State University fan, Dwight cheered with his whole heart, win or lose. He found joy in the simplest yet most meaningful things—bowling, golfing, and woodworking. But above all, he found purpose on the soccer field, where he spent years coaching his sons and later, with pride, cheering on his grandchildren.

Dad had a way of making ordinary moments extraordinary. His stories were legendary, his laughter contagious, and his advice always just what we needed—whether we knew it at the time or not. He taught us the value of hard work, the importance of kindness, and the power of unconditional love.

Though he is no longer physically with us, his spirit lives on in the lessons he taught, the memories he created, and the love he poured into the world. We will carry forward his strength, his kindness, and his unwavering devotion to family.

An intimate celebration of Dwight and Patricia’s lives will be held later this year at Higgins Lake in Northern Michigan—a place they both cherished and where their love will forever be remembered.

Dad, you were our rock, our anchor, and our greatest gift. Your love will forever guide us. We miss you beyond words, but we find peace knowing you are finally at rest.

Rest in love, Dad. You will always be in our hearts.