Michael Owen Schaller

Michael Owen Schaller, 74, of Knox, PA, formerly of Sharon, passed away surrounded by his family on Friday morning, October 23, 2026, in his home.

Mr. Schaller was born on January 18, 1952, in Transfer, a son of the late Owen D. and Mildred (Yelovach) Schaller, and graduated from Sharon High School in 1970, where he ran cross-country.

Upon graduating high school, Michael worked alongside his father at Sharon Steel’s former Farrel plant from 1970 to 1973. He then served two years in the United States National Guard, followed by four years in the United States Army, during which he was stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in 1977.

Michael worked for both Sears and Sheetz in loss prevention, ultimately retiring from Sheetz in 2024.

In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time in nature, particularly in the mountains. He also had a passion for history and aviation, spending time restoring World War II aircraft at Air Heritage, Beaver Falls, PA. For 15 years, he participated in a Civil War reenactment group in Erie alongside his nephew, Joseph Gerrish. He also enjoyed riding his side-by-side and, above all, cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren, Gretchen and Jacob.

He is survived by his son, Josh Schaller (Kelly), Martinsville, VA; two sisters, Cindy Garofoli (Angelo), Masury, OH, and Pam Gerrish, Sharon; brother, Joseph Schaller (Heather), Springs Beach, TX; two grandchildren, Gretchen and Jacob Schaller; eight nieces and nephews, Lisa Garofoli, Laura Eschenauer, Michael Garofoli, Brian and Joseph Gerrish, and Melissa, Amanda, and Gina Schaller; and several great-nieces and great-nephews.

In addition to his parents, Michael was preceded in death by his uncle, George “Butch” Yelovach.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be directed to the Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania, Inc., online at: https://www.veteransleadershipprogram.org/ways-to-give/donate/.

Calling hours will be 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday (10/29/26) in J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1090 E. State St., Sharon.

A time of sharing will immediately follow at 6 p.m. on Thursday in the funeral home.

Military honors will be rendered by the Wheatland and West Middlesex Honor Guard.

Interment: Oakwood Cemetery, Hermitage.