Michael "Mike" Dean Schnatterly

Michael Dean Schantterly, known affectionately as Mike to his friends and family, passed away on January 27, 2025, in Greenville, SC, at the age of 69. Born on October 9, 1955, in Hays, Kansas, Mike was a man whose life was marked by a deep faith, a passion for cooking, and a love for the open road.

Mike's journey began as the beloved son of Toya Hegwer and grew to include a loving family of his own. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 40 years, Lorelle Inman Schnatterly, and a proud father to his sons, Ansel and Eric Schnatterly, the latter engaged to Madison Wells. His family was the center of his world, and he expressed his love for them through his culinary creations, a love language that touched the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to experience it.

Educated at Seabury Western Seminary, Mike earned his Master of Divinity, which paved the way for a life of service and spiritual guidance. His work as an Episcopal Priest began in 1989, and he served with dedication at Christ Church St. Michaels in Maryland, Emanuel in Opelika, Alabama, St. Edwards in Mount Dora, Florida, St. Francis in Greensboro, North Carolina, and Good Shepherd in Greer, South Carolina. Even in retirement, Mike continued to support his community through supply work for area parishes.

Before answering his spiritual calling, Mike cooked professionally alongside renowned chefs Anthony Bourdain and Sam Goldman in New York City during the 1980s. His love for cooking never waned, and it remained a treasured hobby throughout his life, bringing joy and comfort to those around him.

Mike's zest for life was evident in his love for taking drives in his Mini Cooper, especially on mountain roads, with the top down and the wind in his hair. This sense of adventure and freedom was a testament to his spirited nature. In his younger years, Mike’s passion for acting shone through in Wade Hampton High School and Furman Theater productions in which he formed life long friendships and treasured memories.

Those who knew Mike would describe him as loving, faith-filled, and intelligent. His presence was a beacon of warmth and wisdom, and his impact on his community was profound. As a General Ordination Exam reader for Episcopal seminaries, he helped shape the future of the church by guiding aspiring priests on their path to ordination.

Mike's legacy is one of unwavering love, service, and a life lived with purpose. His memory will be cherished and kept alive in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. His spirit, characterized by his loving nature and faith-driven life, will continue to inspire and guide us.

As we bid farewell to Michael Dean Schantterly, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a soul that enriched the world. He will be deeply missed, but the memories he created will forever be a source of comfort and joy to those who were blessed to know him. Mike's journey on earth may have come to a close, but his story will be told for generations to come, a testament to a life well-lived and a man dearly loved.

Photo by Brenda Hill.