Jennie Schumacher

Jennie Mae (Klatt) Schumacher died peacefully, with family at her bedside, on January 2, 2018. She was 90. She is survived by her brother James (Donna) Klatt of Menasha, children F. Richard Schumacher (Cheryl) of Beverly Hills, Florida; Donna Moberg (Jon) of Shorewood, Wisconsin; Susan Schumacher (James Kamin) of Minneapolis; Kathryn Sullivan (Patrick) of Monona, Wisconsin; William V. Schumacher (Brenda) of Wausau; Kurt E. Schumacher (Tammie) of Wausau; Christopher J. Schumacher (Amy) of Bloomington, Illinois; seventeen grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband of 66 years Franklin V. Schumacher, her parents Adolph and Ada (Edminster) Klatt, siblings Richard, Robert, and Jane (Algiers), close Aunt Hattie Hofman and beloved cousin Joyce Hofman. Jennie Mae was born November 27, 1927 in New London, Wisconsin, and attended North Fond du Lac High School, graduating as a valedictorian in 1945. She bravely presented her Commencement speech just months after losing her older brother on Iwo Jima in World War II. Jennie obtained her nursing degree from Mercy Hospital in Oshkosh Wisconsin and worked as a Registered Nurse for many years. Jennie married Franklin V. Schumacher in 1951 and, while working tirelessly as a full time nurse at St. Mary's Hospital, also raised seven children in Wausau. The family life, first on Roosevelt Street and later on Oakwood Boulevard, was a loving one, characterized by a generously open environment, with children of all ages comfortable in Jennie's home. Married to a man of strong will and opinions, Jennie, though quieter, was every bit his match in the strength of her convictions and character. Jennie's commitment to social justice was clear in her day to day life, finding expression in the way she treated people, and in her willingness to express indignation at the prejudice of others. She was once called to jury duty and her persistence resulted in convincing eleven reluctant others that compassion and justice required a not guilty verdict. In retirement Jennie was able to devote more time to her varied interests, travelling with her husband to many of the historical sites she had read so much about. She read and learned much about English history, and she loved to watch old classic movies. Jennie became an avid football fan watching her youngest son's high school and college games, and later became a dedicated Badger fan, travelling to their Rose Bowl appearances. Jennie loved the various dogs that she and the family had in their home over the years, and the mention of her cherished German Short-Haired Pointers (Baron & Freddy) would always bring tears to her eyes. She will be remembered as a great caregiver to others, as a Nurse and extraordinary mother, a devoted wife, and a kind and generous person. Her legacy includes a family committed to carrying on the values of social justice she embodied in her daily life. Jennie's family wishes to thank the dedicated staff at Mountain Terrace and Aspirus Hospice Care who provided loving care and support. It was her wish that her remains be donated to the University of Wisconsin Medical School. A memorial service and remembrance is planned for Saturday, January 13th at the Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 N. 6th Street in Wausau. Visitation will be from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM with a Special Remembrance and Celebration from 3:00-4:30. All are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers or other memorials, donations to Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services are suggested. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com