Michael Schlatter

Michael Lee Schlatter, age 34, realized his ultimate victory over cancer on December 30, 2025. Michael was born October 23, 1991, in Denison, Iowa, the beloved oldest son of Steve and Ronette Schlatter.
Michael's life was challenging, yet filled with countless joyful moments. Michael was predictably unpredictable with his happiest moments spent enjoying life's simple pleasures like a stroll in the park, rocking in his favorite rocking chair, swinging on the front porch swing with Mom or Dad, riding in the car on a warm sunny day, sitting outside listening to the birds or listening to music. The lessons Michael taught those who loved him were invaluable - perseverance, patience, acceptance of people of varied abilities, gratitude for the quiet peaceful moments, and most importantly, advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves.
Michael was blessed with passionate and loving caregivers throughout his life. His journey began at ChildServe when he was just five years old, where staff members - including Sara, Jackie, Michelle, and Kayla - saw not his limitations, but his possibilities and big personality. Alongside his housemates, the ChildServe staff lovingly treated "Michael Michael" to many adventures, including trips to the State Fair, swimming, fishing at local ponds and memorable holiday parties.
Later in life, Michael moved into a Mosaic group home, where he was once again surrounded by compassionate caregivers who continued to enrich his life with meaningful experiences. One of his most memorable adventures was watching his younger brothers play in the state baseball tournament at Principal Park.
For the final four-plus years of his life, Michael lived with Shania and Peterson Kinywa, where he became lovingly known as "Uncle Michael" to their children. Shania and Peterson made Michael a member of their family, including him on family vacations and trips to the family farm. He remained with the Kinywa family until his passing, with Shania and Michael's parents providing devoted and compassionate care in his final days with the assistance of Unity Point Hospice.
Michael is survived by his parents, Steve and Ronette Schlatter of Polk City; brothers Andrew (Lexi) Schlatter of Bondurant and Caleb (Jade) Schlatter of Ankeny; nephews and niece Tate, Jack, and Halle Schlatter; grandparents Ron and Sharon Hanson of Pomeroy and Mary Schlatter of Washington; and his host family, Shania and Peterson Kinywa, Wayne, and Mimo of Des Moines, as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Michael was preceded in death by his uncles and godfathers, Randy Hanson and Tim Schlatter; his paternal grandfather, Dick Schlatter; and his niece, Vivian Grace, infant daughter of Andrew and Lexi Schlatter.
A celebration of Michael's life will be held at Lutheran Church of Hope – Ankeny (520 NW 36th Street, Ankeny) at 11 am on Monday, January 5th with the family being present for visitation from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. before the service. A private family burial will be held later.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be directed to ChildServe Foundation, Inc., the Mosaic Foundation or Unity Point Hospice.