Mike Schalk

Michael Lynn Schalk, 74, of Indianapolis and formerly of Monrovia, passed away peacefully with his loved ones by his side on March 4, 2026, at Methodist Hospital. Born at home in Crossville, Illinois, on October 24, 1951, Mike was the fifth of six children of the late Ulyess Arthur “Dude” and Lola Violet (Davis) Schalk. Raised in a close-knit family, he graduated from Crossville High School in 1969 and earned a degree in printing technology from Vincennes University.

Mike spent more than 30 years in the printing industry at Shorewood Packaging, where he became Production Manager. Known for his loyalty, steady nature, and strong work ethic, he formed many lifelong friendships through his work. On Valentine’s Day in 1978, he married the love of his life, LuAnn (Hinshaw) Schalk. Together they built a warm and joyful home centered on raising their three boys, spending time with family and friends, traveling to Cancun, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures.

Despite facing significant health challenges, Mike met each one with quiet strength and without complaint. To his children and grandchildren, he was a gentle, easygoing father, Pa, and Papaw. A member of West Union Friends Church, he was an exceptional cook, famous for his steak with mushrooms and chocolate chip cookies. He loved working in the yard and garden, returning to Illinois for family visits and high school reunions, playing cards, watching Westerns, and listening to the music of Alabama, the Allman Brothers, and Sawyer Brown. His calming presence put everyone at ease, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, his wife LuAnn, and his siblings-in-law Jimmy Thomas, Donna Dolen, Nancy Hinshaw, and Greg Kempf. He is survived by his children Jonathan Schalk (Rachel) of Brownsburg, Jake Storm (Kim) of Avon, and Matt Storm (Misty) of Louisville; his siblings Paul Schalk (Jeanette) of Carmi, Illinois, Roy Schalk (Ruth) of Greenfield, Carolyn Thomas of Springerton, Illinois, Joe Schalk (Carolyn) of Spring Hill, Tennessee, and Janette Speir (Howard) of Pegram, Tennessee; his siblings-in-law Lynn Kempf of Keene, New Hampshire, Judy Will of Mooresville, and Judd Hinshaw (Terrie) of Monrovia; his grandchildren Amber Schalk (Danny), Deacon Storm, Gavin Storm, Madilyn Storm, Gianna Storm, and Rider Schalk; and his great-grandchildren Emmy LuAnn and Elaina Mae.