Mike was born on February 12, 1943, in Nemecki, Illinois, to the late George William Schiber and Margaret Roderick Schiber. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Jeannette Schiber.
He was a man of many interests and a lifelong learner whose curiosity led him to explore the world around him. He was an avid gardener, fisherman, sailor, cook, and model train enthusiast. He also earned his pilot’s license, reflecting his adventurous spirit and desire to learn and experience new things.
Mike and his wife, Beth, were members of the Optimist Club in Santa Maria, California. Those who knew Michael will remember his kindness and generosity, his encouraging nature, and his upbeat outlook on life. He had a natural curiosity and an explorer’s spirit, always interested in learning something new. He also had a wonderful sense of humor and enjoyed telling jokes and bringing smiles to those around him.
Mike is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Ann Schiber; six children, Mary McAlister, Michael McAlister (Grace), John McAlister (Susan), Melinda Kerschner, Ruthanne Browning, and Michael Schiber; four siblings, Lawrence Schiber, Carol Thomas, Linda Petty (Tom), and Phillip Schiber (Sandy); nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a large extended family of Schibers and Rodericks.
The family will receive friends on Friday, August 28, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. at Elon Presbyterian Church, 2290 Cedar Gate Road, Madison Heights, VA 24572. A Celebration of Life will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the church, with Pastor Shawn Morrison officiating. Burial will immediately follow the service at Elon Presbyterian Church Cemetery.
The family asks that those wishing to honor Mike’s memory consider making a memorial contribution to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org, the American Lung Association at www.lung.org, Elon Presbyterian Church, 2290 Cedar Gate Road, Madison Heights, VA 24572, or The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 110 Melinda Drive, Lynchburg, VA 24502.
