Kirk Matthew Schauer, II

Cheraw, SC – Mr. Kirk Matthew Schauer, II, age 50, passed away peacefully on the evening of August 8, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his beloved family. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at Reformation Church, officiated by Bishop T.C. Holmes, with special music arranged and led by Reverend Tracy Langdon. The family will greet friends from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM prior to the service at the church.

Mr. Schauer was born on August 12, 1974, in Cheraw, SC, a son of Kirk Matthew Schauer and the late Delores “Dodi” McDonald Schauer. He graduated from Marlboro County High School in 1992 and served over six years in the U.S. Navy as a Surface Ship Nuclear Propulsion Plant Operator and Engineering Laboratory Technician. He received the National Defense Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, and numerous commendations during his service. Following his military career, he worked for Willamette Industries and was currently employed with Duke Energy as a licensed Service Reactor Operator and shift manager. In this capacity, he not only excelled in his duties but also committed himself to the development of young professionals, demonstrating a remarkable talent for mentorship. His colleagues often referred to him as the "Best Boss," a testament to his intelligence, humility, and the positive impact he had on those around him, particularly his work family known as "Crew Charlie."

Kirk also served as an EMT-Intermediate with Marlboro County Rescue for several years and was a dedicated member of Reformation Church of Cheraw, actively participating in its annual fish fry. Recently, he was baptized on August 2, 2025. An avid golfer, he enjoyed fishing, particularly deep-sea fishing trips with John and the boys, hiking in the mountains with his wife, and taking weekend “Guy Trips” with his sons. Above all, he cherished his family and holding the title of “Pop-Pop” close to his heart as he adored his grandchildren especially enjoying golf cart rides with them.

He was preceded in death by his mother, an infant son, Kirk Matthew Schauer, III, and his father-in-law, Jackie Bradshaw. He is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Heather B. Schauer; children, Taylor C. Schauer (Ryan Smith) of Cheraw, SC, Zachary Kaleeb (Kimberly) Schauer of Darlington, SC, and Bradlee Abbott Schauer of Cheraw; grandchildren, Marilyn Reese Smith (“Pork-Chop”), Jackson Robert Schauer, and Charlie Kirk Smith; father, Kirk Matthew Schauer of Wallace, SC; sister, Jennifer (Tad) Polson of Cheraw, SC; mother-in-law, Mary Bradshaw (Michael Driggers) of Bennettsville, SC; brother-in-law, Dean Bradshaw of Bennettsville; along with numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and his church family.

The family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to nurse Whitney Quick and the staff of Scotland Cancer Treatment Center for their exceptional care and support during this time.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Kirk’s memory to Scotland Cancer Treatment Center, 500 Lauchwood Dr, Laurinburg, NC 28352.

Miller-Rivers-Caulder Funeral Home (www.mrcfuneralhome.com) of Chesterfield, SC is serving the Schauer family.