Harlan Lee Schram, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, went home to be with the Lord on October 17, 2025, at the age of 90.
Harlan was born on July 16, 1935, and grew up in East Lansing, Michigan. He graduated from East Lansing High School in 1953. He continued his education at Calvin College, earning a Bachelor of Science in 1957, and later completed his engineering degree at Michigan State University in 1959.
In 1957, Harlan married the love of his life, Marjorie (Knoop) Schram, and together they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and service. They raised three children and shared 68 wonderful years of marriage.
A pioneer in industrial automation, Harlan devoted his career to advancing the efficiency and design of leather tanneries. His work took him across the Midwest, the Caribbean, and Central America where he helped establish facilities for several companies, including Wolverine World Wide. His leadership and ingenuity left a lasting impact on the industry and the communities he touched.
Harlan’s life was guided by his deep Christian faith. He served faithfully as a deacon and elder in his church, and after retiring, he and Marjorie settled in Holland, Michigan, where they became active members of Christ Memorial Church. Harlan also gave generously of his time through Habitat for Humanity and participated in numerous mission trips to Central America.
Above all, Harlan cherished his family. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a loving grandfather to five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He found joy in every moment spent with them-sharing stories, building projects, and living out his unwavering faith through quiet acts of love and kindness.
Harlan loved the Lord and lived a life that reflected his steadfast belief in Christ. His legacy of faith, integrity, and compassion will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Harlan is survived by his wife Marjorie (Knoop) Schram; children Jon and Leesa (Zwiep) Schram, Tom and Julie (Koppin) Schram, Katie and Bob Reicks; Grandchildren Andrew and Jessica (Schram) Huizenga (Christian, Mackenzie, Madeline, Brecken), Nate and Christine (Schram) Gilbertson (Clayton, Benjamin, Elizabeth), Nathan Schram and Harry Botwick, Sarah Reicks, Ben and Breanna (Broadrick) Schram (Lettie); and a brother Terry and Judith Schram.
Visitation with the family is 10:00-10:45 am on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Christ Memorial Church (Chapel), 595 Graafschap Rd. Holland, MI 49423.
A Celebration of Life will take place the same day starting at 11:00 am also at Christ Memorial Church.
Memorial contributions in Harlan’s honor may be given to Holland Christian Schools at www.hollandchristian.org or by mail to 956 Ottawa Ave. Holland, MI 49423.
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