Obituary: Kirk David Schonwald

Kirk David Schonwald of Paw Paw, Michigan, a beloved father, grandfather, son, brother, and uncle, died on Friday, June 21, 2024, in Sarasota, Florida. He was 65 years old. 

Throughout his life, Kirk was a spontaneous explorer who was not afraid to get up and go. He made friends every place he went.

Kirk was an avid sports fan and loved watching the Michigan Wolverines, Detroit Tigers, and Detroit Lions. He would often be seen wearing one of his many ball caps to support his favorite teams. 

Kirk loved to swim, read books, and discuss politics. He was a great debater. Throughout most of his life, Kirk loved to live by the beach. It was one of his favorite places to relax. 

Kirk had an unbreakable bond with his daughter, Brandi, aka his “Big B.” He never let a day go by where he wouldn’t let her know how much he loved her and how proud he was of her. Brandi will miss his infectious laugh and big hugs. 

Kirk was close with his sisters, Debbie and Natalie. He adored them and loved to give them a hard time. He had an amazing sense of humor. 

Kirk was also close with his grandson, Thomas. They always talked, and he was very proud of him for attending and doing well at Michigan State University. Thomas was his “Little Buddy,” as he always called him. 

Kirk is survived by his daughter, Brandi Joy Crawford, of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; his son, Joshua David Schonwald of San Diego, California; his grandsons, Thomas Crawford and Rhys Schonwald; his sisters, Deborah Schonwald and Natalie Taylor-Davis of Paw Paw, Michigan; his nieces, Noel and Taylor; and his nephew, Adam; and friends with whom he shares fond memories. 

Kirk was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara Joyce Conner, and his father, Douglas David Schonwald of Paw Paw, Michigan. It gives his family comfort to know he is reunited with them in heaven. 

Kirk’s wishes were to not have a service but to be cremated and have his ashes spread in the ocean by his daughter.