Obituary of Susan Agnes Schumacher

Celebrating the life of Susan Agnes Schumacher

December 15, 1945 – November 15, 2023 

Embracing a legacy of love and compassion, Susan Agnes Schumacher graced this world on December 15, 1945, a cherished child born to Carl and Violet Kopp in North St. Paul, Minnesota. As the middle child among seven siblings, Susan, affectionately known as Sue, filled her family’s life with love, happiness and kindness. 

Sue graduated from North High School in 1963, and it was around this time she would encounter the love of her life, Larry Schumacher, and shape a life of love and lasting commitment. Sue pursued her educational journey at the University of Minnesota, earning a bachelor’s degree in education in 1967. 

With Larry by her side, they settled in Washington state, first in Tacoma and later making Gig Harbor their home in 1972. Larry and Sue’s love grew as they welcomed their first son, Matthew, in 1977 and then their second son, Mark in 1982. Sue’s passion for teaching and nurturing young minds was evident in the classrooms of the Tacoma and Peninsula school districts, especially as a third-grade teacher at Discover Elementary in Gig Harbor. Her retirement in 2004 marked the end of a devoted and admirable teaching career.

Sue found joy in life’s simplest treasures – tending to her garden, enjoying the warmth of the sun, walking, and taking in the beauty of God’s creation. Her creative spirit found expression through painting, while her heart found fulfillment in spending time with her family, especially the cherished moments shared with her grandchildren. As a grandmother, Sue was intentional, creating moments of connection and love (with the addition of chocolate milk).  

Sue held a profound faith in the Lord, an unwavering source of strength and comfort throughout her journey. Even as Primary Progressive Aphasia gradually silenced her ability to communicate, Sue’s faith illuminated her path, providing courage and resilience in the face of adversity.   

On November 15, 2023, in the embrace of her family, Sue peacefully transitioned from this world to heaven. She reunites now with those who had gone before her: her parents, Carl and Violet Kopp; her brother, Rodger Kopp; her sister, Cookie (Dorothy) Dick; and her loving husband, Larry Schumacher. Sue leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion, carried forward by her children, Matt Schumacher (and wife Leda) and Mark Schumacher (and wife Jen); her cherished grandchildren: Kya, Trace, Palmer, Carter, and Wade; her brothers Donnie Kopp, Jack Kopp and Jerry Kopp; her sister June Jennings; and the countless lives she touched through her dedication as an elementary school teacher. 

Sue’s gentle spirit, boundless love, and unwavering kindness illuminated the lives of all fortunate enough to know her. Her absence leaves a void impossible to fill, yet her legacy of love continues to shine brightly. Though she is dearly missed, Sue’s spirit lives on in the hearts she touched, reminding us to embrace each moment with pure love, kindness, and compassion. 

All are warmly invited to join us in celebrating Sue’s life at a memorial service on December 9 at 3 PM at Christ the King Church, at 8065 Chico Way NW, Bremerton, WA 98312. Your presence is most welcome as we come together to honor and remember Sue.