Eric H. Schave

Eric H. Schave, 55, of Chadwick, Illinois, passed away at his home on Friday, October 17, 2025. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 25, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Morrison, Illinois. Visitation will take place from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, October 24, at the church, and again one hour prior to the service on Saturday.

Born on February 22, 1970, in Moline, Illinois, Eric was the beloved son of Dennis and Verna (Hammond) Schave. He spent his early childhood in Moline before the family relocated to a farm outside Chadwick, where he helped care for livestock and completed farm chores. Eric was a 1988 graduate of Chadwick High School. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in education from Ashland University in Ohio in 1992, followed by a Master of Divinity from Ashland Theological Seminary in 1996. A man deeply devoted to faith, family, and community, Eric lived a life of service. He worked as a counselor in schools and for various social service organizations, including Lutheran Social Services and Catholic Charities. His passion for helping others was evident in both his professional work and personal life.

Eric was a long-standing member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, where he served as a deacon, Sunday School teacher, and Bible study participant. He was also known to lend his musical talents by playing trombone for the church’s Christmas concerts.

Eric’s love for his family was central to his life. He first married Ellen Holloman, with whom he had a daughter. In 1999, he met through a mutual friend, Karin Tophooven. They were married in 2000—a year Eric proudly chose so he would never forget how long they’ve been married. Together they shared 25 years of marriage and had one daughter.

Eric was known for his humor, kindness, and steadfast Christian faith. He was the larger-than-life, goofy dad who never missed a game, coached with heart, and lit up every room he entered. He loved hunting and fishing, especially with his brothers and father, and had a passion for woodworking.

In 2012, Eric experienced the first of several strokes. Despite many challenges, he never lost his faith or his gracious spirit. With his loving family by his side, Eric bore his suffering with strength and grace.

He is survived by his wife, Karin Schave of rural Chadwick; two daughters, Sarah “Josie” (Adrian) Burns of Mansfield, OH, and Megan Schave of Peoria, IL; one granddaughter, Robin; and seven siblings: Shannon (Marsha) Schave of Morrison, IL; Ryan (Nancy) Schave of Barneveld, WI; Amy (Joel) Wiseman of Dixon, IL; Leah (Brad) Grenoble of Lake Carroll, IL; Erin Schave of Chicago, IL; Abbi Huesca of Schertz, TX; and Noah (Carrie) Schave of Wilmette, IL. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Eric was preceded in death by his parents, Dennis and Verna Schave, and his brother, Rick.

His family and all who knew him will remember Eric for his warm spirit, unwavering faith, and deep love for those around him. He lived a life that truly reflected his beliefs—as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.