Karl “KJ” Schauer

Karl “KJ” Schauer, 46, of Mitchell, SD, died Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at Avera Queen of Peace Hospital in Mitchell. Funeral services were at 11:00 AM Saturday, September 26, at Reunion Church in Mitchell. Burial will be at Regent Cemetery in Regent, North Dakota. Arrangements by Bittner Funeral Chapel.

Karl Jacob Schauer was born Christmas Eve on December 24, 1979, at the Dupree Farmstead. The midwife Ellen In-the-woods turned to Papa Carl and said, “Carl, you have a son. Come and cut the cord, and then I’ll hand him to you and you can dedicate him to the Lord God.” welcoming KJ into the loving arms of his parents and into a house that included his four sisters.

KJ grew up on the family farm, where there was always something to do. KJ spent hours in his father Carl’s shop, sorting nuts and bolts and organizing, and rode along on the Fordson tractor. There were games of Chinese Checkers and puzzles, walks with his sisters and the family dogs, paddle boating, and yes — even KJ’s favorite chore of cleaning and butchering chickens. Dad, Mom, and KJ shared a special closeness attending Sunday School and Church; and with Mom Vacation Bible School and the after-school club Good News Club along with summer bible camps.

KJ attended and graduated from school in Dupree, South Dakota. With the diagnosis of Prader-Willi syndrome KJ spent three months in a crisis unit in Pittsburgh, PA. Before moving to Life Quest in Mitchell, SD. It was there, within LifeQuest, that KJ went on to help create and take part in the KJ Program, built specifically for individuals living with Prader-Willi syndrome. Fittingly, KJ became one of its teachers: he helped staff understand Prader-Willi, welcomed and mentored others as they joined the program, and became a true and loving friend to many along the way.

KJ will be remembered in so many special ways — his laugh, his sense of humor, his stories, his stubbornness, his gifts, and all the little things that made him uniquely KJ. He is walking with Jesus now in his heavenly home, and there’s comfort in imagining Jesus, KJ, and his dad Carl together — no doubt all three in matching pink sandals. KJ’s favorite color.

KJ is survived by his mother, Velma Schauer; his four sisters, Karla (Randy), Kari (John), Kayleen (Rick), and Kandice (Rodney); four nephews, Johnny, Noah, Aaron, and Andrew; and two nieces, Autumn and Sarah; uncles, Sam and Russell; aunts, Linda, Rita, and Shirley.

He was preceded in death by his father, Carl Schauer; infant sister, Kara Angel; uncles, Ed, Otto, Jake, David, Ron, and Colin; aunts, Emma, Elizabeth, and Karoline.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the entire LifeQuest family and all who made each day bright for KJ — for creating special moments, for holding him near in your hearts, and for the countless little things that made him feel noticed, special, and loved. You were truly difference makers in his life.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Velma and she will distribute the gifts charitably to children and adults with disabilities. Velma Schauer, 501 E. Spruce St Apt. 116, Mitchell, South Dakota 57301.

Rest in peace, KJ. You will always be loved.