Donald Edward "Papa" Stadler

Donald Edward Stadler, lovingly known as "Papa" to his family, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the age of 94. A lifelong farmer, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Don's life was one of faith, hard work, and enduring love.

Born on April 10, 1931, at the Stadler Farm homestead in Monroe, Michigan, Don was the son of Benjamin and Augusta Stadler. He graduated from Monroe High School in 1948 and went on to earn an associate's degree in agriculture through Michigan State University's short course program (1948–1950). Farming was not just his livelihood but his calling, and Don dedicated his entire life to cultivating the land and providing food for the communities of Monroe, Toledo, and Detroit. Stadler Farms, founded in 1896 by his ancestors, proudly remains a rare Centennial Farm, a legacy of which Don was immensely proud.

In 1959, Don met the love of his life, Jane Schaller, at a square dance. From the moment he saw her, he knew she was the one. They married on April 23, 1960, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Stony Ridge, Ohio, and shared nearly 57 years of unwavering devotion, partnership, and joy before Jane entered eternal rest in 2017. Their marriage was a shining example of love and commitment, and Don's heart never ceased to hold Jane close.

Don was a man of deep faith and a longtime member of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Ida, Michigan. His faith was the foundation of his life-shaping his values, sustaining him in difficult times, and guiding him with a sense of peace, strength, and purpose.

To his family, Don was much more than "Papa"-he was a teacher, role model, and source of unconditional love. He cherished time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whether it was playing games, teaching life lessons, or taking the little ones on his beloved "Papa rides." A sharp mind and a card shark at heart, Don enjoyed Euchre, Pinochle, and Hearts, always bringing joy and laughter to the table.

Don's kindness, selflessness, and dignity touched every person he met. He lived his life with respect for all, treating others with warmth and compassion. His legacy is not only in the fields he farmed or the farm he carried forward, but in the lessons he taught: how to work hard, how to give generously, and above all, how to love deeply.

He is now reunited in Heaven with his beloved Jane, and we can only imagine them once again square dancing together, hand in hand, by God's side.

Don is survived by his son, Ronald (Mindy) Stadler; his daughter, Dr. Nancy (Bruce) Stadler-Brandeberry; grandchildren, Benjamin (Jessica) Stadler, Grace (Cody) Lampkowski, Emily (Jarrod) Brandeberry-Price, and Joshua Brandeberry; and great- grandchildren, Avery, Drew, Brynn, and Luke, with a fifth great-grandchild expected in January.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Louis Stadler; and his sister, Emma Makowske.

Though he is no longer here physically, Papa's light will continue to guide and inspire those who were blessed to know him.