SUAMICO, Wis. (WFRV) – Retirement didn’t slow Jack Schindhelm down—it gave him a new way to give back.
Inside his Suamico workshop, Schindhelm spends his days woodworking and using a laser engraver to create everything from plaques and signs to religious items. The pieces are sold or donated to raise money for local charities.
“I’m making thousands of dollars that I can donate,” Schindhelm said.
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For Schindhelm, the work is about more than craftsmanship. He says staying busy helps keep his mind active and gives him a sense of confidence.
“That’s why, in retirement, it gives me self-esteem,” he said. “That’s something I’ve struggled with because of my dyslexia and some of the other learning disabilities that I had throughout my life.”
Schindhelm spent decades as a teacher in industrial arts and technology education. Even in retirement, he’s found ways to continue helping students learn.
He recently donated a laser engraver to Grace Christian Academy, giving students hands-on access to modern design and manufacturing technology.
“The whole idea was to donate it,” Schindhelm said. “It doesn’t have to be a class. It could be an extracurricular activity, but it’s a new technology. The kids can learn this.”
Back in his workshop, many of the items he makes go directly to organizations like Saint Vincent de Paul and local churches. Schindhelm says he began creating religious pieces years ago and has expanded his work to serve more people in the community.
“I started making a Spanish Our Fathers and Hail Marys because I found out 50% of them don’t speak English,” he said. “And when I give it to them, they love getting it.”
Much of the material Schindhelm uses is donated or repurposed, including scrap wood and pieces of old furniture. He says that allows him to focus on donating the proceeds rather than covering costs.
Beyond the charitable impact, Schindhelm says the work also provides an important social connection.
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“That gives me socialization. My wife and I are pretty much alone,” he said.
Through sawdust, laser beams and steady hands, Schindhelm has built more than just wooden pieces. He’s built a way to stay engaged, help others and continue teaching — long after retirement.
