Michael George Schrantz

Michael "Mike" Schrantz, age 62, of Lake Elmo, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Michael George Schrantz was born on August 26, 1963, to George "Buz" and Florence "Pat" (McMahon) Schrantz in St. Paul, Minnesota. He grew up in Cottage Grove, Minnesota, and graduated from Park High School in 1981.

Mike continued his education in the Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) program in Winona, Minnesota, preparing for the career he loved as an aircraft mechanic. He began his career with Republic Airlines in January 1986. Later that same year, Republic Airlines became Northwest Airlines, where he continued his career until retiring following the 2005 strike. He then worked briefly for Champion Air until the company ceased operations in 2008 before beginning a new chapter with Koch Industries as an Operator in the 33/45 Unit. Mike retired from Koch Industries in 2021.

On September 9, 1995, Mike married the love of his life, Ruth Eichman. Together they shared nearly 31 years of marriage built on unconditional love, unwavering devotion, endless laughter, and a lifetime of cherished memories. After retirement, they fulfilled one of their greatest dreams by purchasing a home overlooking the golf course and the Catalina Mountains in Sun City Oro Valley, Arizona. They looked forward to golfing, driving Mike's beloved Challenger year-round, enjoying cool evenings under the stars, and simply spending time together. Around that same time came another incredible blessing-they learned they would become grandparents not once, but twice, as both daughters were expecting.

Just shy of four months after beginning their retirement dream, Mike was diagnosed with Stage IV esophageal cancer. Characteristically determined and courageous, he chose to return to Minnesota to be closer to family and friends while receiving treatment at Mayo Clinic. Over the next four years, he faced his illness with remarkable strength, grace, and perseverance, never allowing it to define the man he was.

Mike enjoyed golfing, driving his Challenger, cheering on Minnesota sports teams, casino outings, and gathering with family and friends whenever possible. He was immensely proud of his children and found his greatest joy in being Grandpa. His grandchildren adored their Boppa/Grandpa/Papa, and they always knew exactly where to find him whenever they came to visit.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Ruth (Eichman) Schrantz; children Ashley (Jonathan) Wenzel, Steven (Haley) Schrantz, and Nichole (Wesley) Banks; grandchildren Elena, Waylon, Daisy, Bennett, Daphne, and Simon; his mother, Florence "Pat" Schrantz; sisters Mary Sue Schrantz and Maureen (Andy) Kallgren; sisters-in-law Beatta Eichman, Cheryl (Craig) Tousley, Marilee (Don) Gutting, and Candy (Terry) Heimerl; brothers-in-law Terry (Tami) Eichman and Floyd Eichman; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, George "Buz" Schrantz; brothers-in-law Phil Dreyer, Kay Eichman, and John Eichman; and sister-in-law Barbara Eichman.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m. Monday, August 10, 2026 from at Kok Funeral Home,1201 Portland Ave.; St. Paul Park, Minnesota.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 11, 2026 at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 920 Holley Avenue, St. Paul Park, Minnesota, with visitation one hour prior to the Mass. A luncheon will follow, and all are welcome.

A life measured not only by years, but by the love he gave, the family he cherished, and the faith that now carries him home. Mike will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

LIVESTREAM INFORMATION: For those who would like to participate in the service via livestream, you can watch the service by scrolling to the bottom of this page and click "PLAY" to begin. Please leave a message of support on our Tribute Wall to let the family know you were able to watch the service. If you are having trouble with the Livestream, the service will be available to watch later in the day.