Christopher P. Schuitema's Obituary
Christopher Paul Schuitema, age 36, of Rochester, NY, passed away on June 23, 2025, due to medical complications. Born on April 18, 1989, to parents Kevin and Sharon (Anderegg) Schuitema, Christopher will be remembered for how he courageously overcame his physical disabilities, and of his zeal for life.
Christopher was born in Grand Rapids, MI, and moved to Indianapolis, IN, when he was four years old. He attended the Indiana School for the Deaf (ISD) from pre-school through high school graduation. Christopher flourished in Indianapolis and at ISD, creating many friendships while excelling in School.
Christopher’s personality and sense of humor were contagious. He was often referred to as the “life of the party”. He engaged with people from all walks of life despite his communication struggles with the “hearing world” and always greeted total strangers with a friendly wave and hug. He adored animals, in particular cats, earning his nickname of “Cat Boy”.
Christopher loved sports! He was an active tennis player and also enjoyed playing basketball. His passion for sports resulted in him becoming a life-long Indianapolis Colts fan and an Indiana Pacers supporter. But above all else, he cherished the Michigan State Spartans, attending a number of basketball games and several Final Four Tournaments.
Christopher loved his parents and his extended family. Holidays, vacations, special events and informal get-togethers created so many wonderful memories throughout his life. He will be sorely missed by all.
Christopher is survived by his parents, Kevin and Sharon Schuitema; his Grandmother, Maxine Anderegg; his Aunt Kathy Anderegg and Aunt Debbie Bowton, Uncle Steve and Aunt Sue Schuitema, Uncle Russ and Aunt Lori Schuitema, Uncle Mark and Aunt Lori Kling, and Uncle Jim VanderWier. He was also blessed with many cousins including Scott Schuitema (Gabrielle), Jake Schuitema, Reed Schuitema (Brenna), Lindsay Mattfolk (Jordan), Tony Polinori (Carly), Madison Polinori, Morgan Michael (Morse), and Danielle Medacco.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Sherwood Schuitema; his grandmother, Jacqueline Balkema; his grandfather, Paul Anderegg; and his Aunt Sherri VanderWier.
In honor of Christopher’s legacy, memorial contributions can be made in his name to Pound Buddies Animal Shelter and Adoption Center (3279 East Laketon Ave, Muskegon). A Private service will be held on Saturday, July 12th, 2025, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St, Norton Shores, MI, 49444. Please sign the family’s online guestbook and share memories with the family at https://sytsemafh.com
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