Wade F. Shack

Wade Shack, age 67, of Onaway, passed away at home on Friday, February 27, 2026. He was the only child of Norman and Hazel (Wilson) Shack and was born in Flint, Michigan, on December 28, 1958. Wade was blessed with a long and happy marriage of 46 years to his wife, Laura (Schillinger) Shack, whom he married in Trenton in 1979.

Wade's connection to the Onaway area began in his childhood, when he spent much time at the family cabin on Black Lake. Later in life, his parents retired to Onaway, and Wade followed, making the community his home. Together with Laura, he built a life in Onaway and raised their daughter there.

Wade dedicated thirty-one years of his professional life to Ferrell Gas of Indian River, where he served as a customer service representative. After retiring in 2012, he took a job with his daughter and son-in-law's lawn care business. Among the crew at VanHouten's, he was affectionately referred to as "Old Dude #1." Wade took great pride in his work and genuinely enjoyed spending time with his crew. His days were filled with mowing lawns and tending to yard work for customers throughout the area. In addition to his landscaping duties, he was well regarded for his skills in fixing anything that needed repair.

An expert gardener, Wade cultivated a large vegetable garden every summer. Throughout the growing season, he found genuine enjoyment in the simple act of tending to his plants, carefully nurturing them, and looking forward to the satisfaction of harvesting fresh vegetables. After spending time in the garden, pulling weeds beneath the hot summer sun, there was nothing Wade loved more than relaxing with a cold beer. Every year, Wade and his son-in-law, Lee, enjoyed a friendly competition centered around growing pumpkins. The winner was determined by the pumpkin that weighed the most. Their annual pumpkin growing contest became a fun tradition with the victor earning bragging rights for the following year.

The centerpiece of Wade's life was always his family. He was devoted to his wife, proud of his daughter, and adored his grandsons. Wade cherished the times he spent visiting Kristin, Lee, and the boys during their camping trips at local campgrounds. These gatherings were filled with laughter, cold beers, and grilling meals together. Wade and Lee particularly enjoyed their time at the grill. On occasion, their collaboration resulted in the creation of unique signature dishes, such as crunchy pork chops, which became a highlight of their camp cookout and a wonderful memory for the entire family.

Wade treasured watching Detroit Lions games with his daughter, Kristin, enjoying her spirited reactions to every play. His grandsons, Cody and Zach, were an endless source of happiness for him. Wade relished their mischievous adventures-whether they came home dirty from a day of play or stirred up trouble in ways they knew were off-limits. He particularly loved watching them whip donuts and engage in antics that their mom might not approve of, cheering them on with his signature encouragement, "Give 'er hell, buddy!" The laughter and excitement his grandsons brought into his life were priceless, and Wade cherished every moment spent with his family.

Wade had a special affection for dogs. To him, they were members of the family. His loyal Black Lab, Cosmo, held a significant place in his heart, as well as his grand dogs, Jake and Sparky. Though, it was Ozzie who captured Wade's heart most deeply, forming an especially close and meaningful bond.

Wade is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Laura Shack; his daughter, Kristin (Lee) VanHouten; and grandsons, Cody and Zachery VanHouten, all of Onaway. He was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Hazel Shack.

Honoring Wade's wishes, cremation has taken place and his family will remember and celebrate his life privately. Those who wish to offer a gesture of sympathy please consider donating in Wade's memory to the Cheboygan County Humane Society, their local animal shelter, or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.