Killian Christopher Schachtlie

Killian Christopher (Chris) Schachtlie, of Hales Corners, WI, was welcomed into eternal life on Friday, April 25th, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer at the age of 64.

Chris was born on February 18th, 1961, in Chicago, IL to Jeanne and the late Killian Nicholas Schachtlie. Growing up in Champaign, IL with his sisters Terese (John) Glatz-McWethy and Kathryn Lessaris, they enjoyed many memories together. They spent summers and countless long weekends at their lake house in Effingham, IL on Lake Sara, where he enjoyed water skiing, boating, projects with his dad, and fireworks every 4th of July. He proudly earned the rank of Eagle Scout at the age of 17, carrying out the strong Schachtlie family values of service, integrity, and trust. The family cherished many traditions, including their lively holiday gatherings and annual Thanksgiving picture around the turkey.

Chris attended Marquette University where he met the love of his life, Caroline (nee Zimmer). Together, they cheered on the Marquette basketball team, enjoyed dinner dances with friends, and frequented the iconic Real Chili on campus. Chris proposed to Caroline at the Joan of Arc Chapel at Marquette, marking the beginning of 40 wonderful years of marriage. Together they had three beautiful daughters Laura (Bill) Gross, Sarah (Adam) Nagy, and Monica (Aaron) Thompson. Because of his adventurous spirit, the family enjoyed bike rides, camping, road trips, and took many memorable vacations. He was the mastermind behind planning every itinerary, always ensuring the trips were full of discovery and joy. His epic packing skills for family car trips were legendary, always making sure every bag fit just right and everything was perfectly packed.

Chris was a proud “Papa” to his 8 grandchildren – Yossi, Mayer, Devori, Shneur, and Golda Gross; Killian Isaac Nagy; and Levi and Cecilia Thompson, whom he loved so dearly. Whether he was teaching them how to give a firm handshake or taking them to the annual car show, his pride and affection for his grandchildren was overflowing. He was always willing to get down on the floor surrounded by toys, fully immersing himself in their world. But the family gatherings at the lake house were among his greatest joys. He created so many memories through tubing adventures, teaching the kids how to drive the boat, and taking them for endless jet ski rides. Summers at Lauderdale Lakes have been quite a special time for our family.

Chris had a vast network of dear friends, extended family, coworkers, and neighbors who enriched his life in innumerable ways. He was always going out of his way to generously show up for others, using his hobbies and talents to make sure they were cared for, undoubtedly with his Milwaukee Tools in hand. He was a master fix-it man, the person everyone called for help- whether it was home repairs, lake house projects, or what aisle a tool was in at Menards, he was everyone’s go to guy. He was constantly thinking of ways to help others, and it brought him great joy to know the happiness it brought them.

He was also a dedicated volunteer with the Hales Corners Historical Society, maintaining the Ben Hunt cabin to preserve our village history for future generations. He also proudly participated in an Honor Flight in 2016, a tribute to his deep respect and appreciation for the sacrifices made by many veterans. He loved riding around town in his Miata and was often found cheering for his beloved Packers. After his cancer returned in 2024, he and his family took an unforgettable trip to Hawaii to come together as a family and celebrate life.

Chris lived his life with unwavering faith and commitment to God. He and Caroline built a home rooted in faith and service to others – a legacy that continues in all of us. He will be remembered for his steadfast faith and his quiet strength as it touched the lives of all who knew him. His memory is our blessing.

A celebration of Chris’ life will take place on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at Krause Funeral Home, 12401 West National Avenue, New Berlin, Wisconsin from 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM with a memorial service beginning at 7:00 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at St. Mary Catholic Faith Community, 9520 West Forest Home Avenue, Hales Corners, Wisconsin at 10:00 AM, immediately followed by final goodbyes at St. Adalbert’s Cemetery in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Friends and family are invited to gather, share memories, and honor the legacy of a truly remarkable man.

Additionally, we invite you to share and send in stories or photos of Chris to the email: LovingMemoriesOfChris@gmail.com for family and friends to appreciate for many years to come.

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