Charles Louis Shottroff

Charles Louis Shottroff, longtime business owner and respected member of the community, passed away peacefully from heart failure on June 17, 2026, in Livonia, Michigan, at the age of 86. He was born on May 8, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, to Charles and Jennie (Grez) Shottroff. Charles spent more than 50 years building and operating a successful office equipment leasing business. He was known for his strong work ethic, generosity, sense of humor, and deep devotion to the people he loved. Above all else, Charles cherished his family.

He is survived by the mother of his four sons, Shirley (Farquhar) Shottroff, whom he described as gracious and truly one of a kind. Charles was the proud and loving father of Charles and Michael Shottroff, of Dearborn Heights, Michigan; Jeffrey and Jennifer (Krygier) Shottroff, of Wixom, Michigan; and Ted Shottroff, of Keego Harbor, Michigan. To his sons he leaves these words: “You have made me a proud father and friend. I loved spending time with you,

growing together throughout our lives. I will love you all forever.”

Charles wished his family to know, “My last wish is to give hugs and kisses to God’s special gifts to me.” Those special gifts were his cherished grandchildren: Nikolas Shottroff, Samantha Shottroff, Jake Shottroff, Adain Bell, Alexander Bell, Madison Schoolmeesters, and Emma Kate Schoolmeesters. As “Papa,” Charles hoped to leave behind an afterglow of smiles, laughter, happy memories, and the many “go, go, go” adventures they shared together.

He is also survived by his former wife, Barbara (Cox)(Schoolmeesters) Shottroff, whom he described as wise and

loving. Charles was a devoted stepfather to Steven Schoolmeesters, of Land O’ Lakes, Florida; Kevin and Jennifer

Schoolmeesters, of Tampa, Florida; and Alana and Scott Bell, of Redondo Beach, California. Charles appreciated Barbara’s devotion to her children and family.

Charles is also survived by his special niece, Lisa Shottroff Miller, and her husband, Rodney Miller, along with their children: Amy (Quinton) Hinsberg, Jamie Lee, and Richard. He is further survived by his loving nephew, Edward Shottroff, son of Charles’s late brother, Edward Shottroff, who preceded him in death on June 22, 1999, and his former wife, Wanda Shurkus.

He leaves behind a large and loving extended family, including Kristy, Justin, Olivia, Ronnie, Sandy, Bob, Sharon, Alex, Kristine, Sydney, Joshua, Noah, Chakhan, Mike, Roxanne, Michelle, Shawn, Debbie, Brian, Ryleigh, Tim, Kellee, Maddy, Hope, Laura, Matt, Megan, Maisy, Shelly, Dan, Bradley, Stephanie, Nash, Rita, Simon, and Thomas.

To all who mourn his passing, Charles wished to leave these words: “I’d like the tears of those who grieve to dry before the sun, remembering the happy memories I leave behind when my life is done.”

His legacy is simple and enduring: Believe in God and salvation. Be honest with yourself. Love your family and friends.