Mary A. Schumacher

Mary Agnes Schumacher, a woman of unwavering strength, gentle grace, and a profound love for education, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2024, at the age of 90. She was surrounded by her loving family, who will forever cherish her memory and the indelible impact she made on their lives.
 
 Born on December 24, 1933, in Lansing, Michigan, Mary was the cherished daughter of William and Margaret Merrick. From an early age, she displayed a deep passion for learning, which led her to pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from St. Teresa's College in Winona, Minnesota.
 
 Mary's passion for teaching propelled her into a successful career as a kindergarten teacher, where she nurtured countless young minds in the pursuit of knowledge. In 1972, she embarked on a new endeavor and founded Peter Pan Nursery School, providing a nurturing environment for children to grow and learn. For 27 years, Mary poured her heart and soul into the school, leaving an indelible mark on generations to come.
 
 Beyond her dedication to education, Mary found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She relished weekends at the family cabin, cultivating vibrant gardens, exploring new destinations through travel, and engaging in the art of quilting. Mary's warm smile, her love for playing bridge, and her unwavering support for her children's athletic endeavors brought immeasurable happiness to all who knew her.
 
 Mary's gentle nature and compassionate spirit served as a guiding light for her friends, family, and community. She was a devoted member of the Church of Saint Peter and actively participated in various organizations, including the Minnesota Quilters, Memorial Quilters, Fairview Lakes Auxiliary, and Forest Lake Senior Center. Her unwavering kindness, empathy, and non-judgmental nature will forever be remembered and cherished by all who were fortunate to have known her.
 
 Mary now reunites with her parents, William and Margaret; her beloved husband, John, who preceded her in death in 1983, along with their son, John Hugo Jr., and infant daughters, Mary and Mary Elizabeth; brother-in-law, Ken Jansen. She leaves behind her devoted children, Meg (Jim) Jensen, Ann (Scott) Leverington, Amy Schumacher, daughter-in-law, Bernie Schumacher, and her treasured grandchildren, Mary (Eric), Sarah, Tavia (Andrew), Nikki (Kiel), Tyler (Dani), Ryan (Tracy), Jake (Kelsey), Erin, Joe, Jon (Noel); great-grandchildren, Sloan, Blakelyn, Noah, Ashton, Jayden, Avery, Ellie, Jordyn, Addison, Emerson, Brooks, Carson. Mary is also survived by her sister, Kathryn "Kit" Jansen, and brother, William "Bill" (Diane) Merrick, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who were touched by her love and kindness.
 
 Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Monday, February 5, 2024 at the Church of Saint Peter, 1250 South Shore Drive, Forest Lake.  Visitation one hour prior to mass at the church.  Interment at Calvary Cemetery, Forest Lake.
 
 Mary Agnes Schumacher will be remembered as a woman whose warmth, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to education enriched the lives of countless individuals. Her legacy will continue to shine brightly as a source of inspiration for all those who were touched by her radiant spirit. May she rest in eternal peace.