Michael "Mike" Schanbacher, age 78, of Cisco, Texas, passed away on June 25, 2026. He was born on September 30, 1947, in Billings, Montana, and grew up in Abilene, Texas. After his biological father died in a plane crash, Mike was raised by his loving mother and stepfather. He graduated from Cooper High School in 1966, attended Tarleton State University, and later enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1968. He served in the reserves for six years as an auto mechanic (MOS 3516) and earned an Expert Badge with the M-14 rifle. He continued his education at Tarrant County College and Dallas Baptist University, earning a Bachelor of Business Administration degree.

Mike met the love of his life, Connie, in 1975 while working in IT at Power Computing Company. They married on November 22, 1975, and recently celebrated 50 wonderful years together. Mike later joined Bell Helicopter Textron, where he gave more than 33 years of dedicated service.

Affectionately known as "Papa," Mike loved fishing, traveling, and spending time with his grandchildren and family. A faithful member of the Church of God, he was known for his kindness and warmth and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Connie Schanbacher; his children, Kathryn and Rev. Michael Cobb and daughter-in-law Susie and her husband Freddy Fisher; his grandchildren, Amanda and Aaron Najera, Aaron and Emily Guthrie, Allen Cobb, Trevor and Katie Smith, Katie Jo Smith, and Bryan Slayton and Chloe Smith; and his great-grandchildren, Kaden Coldren, Sophie Smith, Hazel Smith, Louis Smith, Makiah Smith, Slaton Smith, and Maverick Guthrie. He is also survived by his brother, Jimmy Don Schanbacher; brother-in-law, Derrel Allen; sisters-in-law, Beverly McGuire and Peggy Allen; and nieces, Maresa Heflin, Jennifer Lopez, and Lindsey Diaz.

Mike was preceded in death by his father, James Eugene Schanbacher (Jimmy); Clarence Lester "Buddy" Shirley; Juanita Shirley; and son, Bryan Earl Smith.

A celebration of Mike's life will be held at Elmwood Funeral Home in Abilene, Texas, on Thursday, July 2. Visitation will begin at 12:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Interment to follow.

Mike's legacy of love, faith, and service will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. He will be remembered always as a devoted husband, proud Papa, and faithful servant.