Paula Schumacher

A blossom, Paula Pearl Schumacher, fell Monday, November 3. We mourn the loss of her beautiful presence among us. We rejoice her joining Our Savior and her reunion with her best friend and husband, Guerdon, along with many treasured departed family and friends.

Paula was born December 3, 1928, to Carl and Rita Cox in the city of Bannister, Michigan, joining her older sister, Carlita. Her beloved grandparents, Pearl and Pearl Mead, also played an enormous role in her upbringing.

Paula met Guerdon in the nearby high school in Elsie, Michigan. They went to Michigan State University together with both obtaining degrees enabling them both to find positions at Beaverton Rural High School in 1949. This began the mutual adoptions of the community and themselves with each other. Paula left teaching after two years to raise her sons, Carter and Ron, while Guerdon eventually took an opportunity to begin his own independent insurance agency.

Paula was a woman of many varied talents. She was a natural teacher, a skilled quilter, marvelous watercolorist, an enthusiastic photographer, and an eventual bookkeeper and office assistant in the Schumacher Agency with her husband. She also designed the contemporary 1960s house overlooking Ross Lake that her family has lived in to this day.

Most significantly, Paula was known for her authenticity, easy smile, and sincere, open interest in anyone she met. She saw the best in others and could help bring it out. Throughout her life and after her passing, many people remarked that she was one of the sweetest, nicest people they had ever known.

Paula was preceded in death by her son Ronald and her husband Guerdon. She is survived by her son, Carter, and her daughter-in-law, Karen. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Carter Philip and Suzy, children of Cater and Karen, and also Ronald’s son Derek. Over time, they were joined by grandsons of the heart, Jesse and Nicholas and their respective families.

Funeral services will take place on Monday, November 11 at 11:00 A.M. at the Beaverton United Methodist Church. Visitation will be held from 10:00 A.M. until the time of the service. She will be laid to rest at Beaverton City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Beaverton United Methodist Church. Arrangements are in the care of Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home. www.hallkokotovichfuneralhome.com