Adelgunde "Adele" Schmich

Adele's story began during the height of the Great Depression which reached the world over. Yet for Hermann and Katharina (Raab) Salenbacher of Germany, the days were made brighter on February 7, 1930 with the birth of their daughter, Adelgunde. Born in the town of Teuschnitz, Bavaria, Germany, Adelgunde was one of six children including her twin, Josef, and older siblings Johanna, Max, and twins Gretel and Hermann.

Adele attended the local schools and despite times of war, went on to graduate from high school. At the age of 25, she ventured to America where she lived with her sister, Johanna in Grand Rapids, Michigan. With hopes of a bright future, Adele worked at Kindall Furniture Company as an assembler. Although often times homesick, she adjusted well to her new life in the U.S. In time she became a member of the Edelweiss Club, and the German American Club, both social clubs for German Americans. She especially loved singing in the Edelweiss Club Choir.

While attending a dance at the German American Club, Adele's fate in America was sealed when she met Frank Schmich. After dating for a time, it was shortly after Adele's 28th birthday when they were happily married on February 17, 1958 at St. Mary's Catholic Church. They lived in a home on the east side of Grand Rapids at 1414 Herrick Street NE where they welcomed the birth of two sons, Arnold in 1958, and Rob in 1964. In 1969 they moved to Powers Court NW where their daughter, Pamela completed their family in 1970. It was also the place they called home for the rest of their days together.

The Schmichs were faithful members of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church where Adele's children attended St. Anthony's Elementary School and West Catholic High School. Adele took pride in caring for her home and family which brought her great joy. She was a fabulous baker of many German favorites including Apfelkuchen, a German apple cake, as well as Rum Balls, potato pancakes, and delicious Christmas cookies.

In addition to providing a good home for Frank and their family, Adele loved to bowl, having earned numerous trophies at Westgate and Michigan Lanes. She was also an avid supporter, volunteer and fundraiser for Hospice of Michigan. In fact, she won many awards for being the top fundraiser for Hospice's annual “Walk to Remember” campaign. When it came to being a grandmother, Adele reveled in her grandsons and enjoyed time with them.

After suffering a stroke five years ago, Adele began living at Sanctuary at St. Mary’s where she enjoyed many friends and loved the wonderful and caring staff. Over the last two weeks, her health diminished and quite peacefully, Adele died with her loving family by her side. In many ways, Adele Schmich defined the meaning of devoted wife, dedicated mother, loyal friend and a woman devout to her Catholic faith. She enlightened all with her wonderful sense of humor and social nature. A true blessing, her generous spirit, giving nature and warmhearted ways was an inspiration and gift to those who loved and cared for her. Deeply loved, she will be dearly missed.

Adelgunde K. “Adele” Schmich, aged 84 of Grand Rapids, passed away on Monday, October 27, 2014 with her family at her side. She was preceded in death by her son, Arnold Schmich; brother, Hermann Salenbacher; sisters, Johanna (Karl) Gulbis and Gretel Stoessner. She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Frank Schmich; her children, Robert (Alexandra) Schmich, Pamela (Mark) Vandervest; grandchildren, Eric and Luke Vandervest; her brother, Josef (Anni) Salenbacher; and brother-in-law, Albert Stoessner; many nieces, nephews and friends. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday morning, 11:00 AM at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 2510 Richmond St. NW. Burial in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. The family would like to thank the staff of Sanctuary at St. Mary’s and her roommate Carol Vance for the compassionate and loving care she received the last five years of her life. Relatives and friends may meet her family at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home – 2120 Lake Michigan Dr. NW on Thursday 6-8 PM with a scripture service at 7:00 PM, and again on Friday from 2–4 PM. Contributions in her memory may be made to Hospice of Michigan or Sanctuary at St. Mary’s. To read more about Adele’s life, to sign her guest book and to leave your own memory of her, visit her web page at www.lifestorynet.com.