Mark Steven Schumacher

Mark Steven Schumacher, 68, of Salem, Virginia, but born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, passed away on Sunday, April 20, 2025. He is now able to be in peace and comfort after 20+ years of chronic pain. The family is rejoicing that on Easter Sunday, they were able to celebrate his new life with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Mark was predeceased by his father, Richard Schumacher; grandparents, Edward and Florence Vlach and Albert and Anna Denk; uncles, “Gus” Schumacher, Jack Denk and Robert Denk; aunt, Doris Denk; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Harold and Norma Wehrend; and longtime friend, Val Reichart. He was fortunate in knowing and loving all four of his grandparents for many years during his lifetime; most of them not passing away until they were well into their nineties. Mark truly cherished his relationships with his grandparents. Lastly, Mark’s little friend and shadow, a loving Papillon dog named Holly awaits him.

Mark worked for Liberty Mutual Group for over 26 years, holding several positions, the last being Sales Manager and Office Operations Manager. Mark took early retirement after a spinal/neck injury – resulting in multiple surgeries and limiting his activities, especially his ability to travel. His hobbies and interests were varied, including participating and fan interest in basketball, baseball, football and boxing; having boxed himself in his late teens. As an avid Cleveland fan, Mark lived and died with each Browns and Indians win or loss… too many of the latter. He was a history nut when it came to the Civil War, World War II, and the folk-rock music of the late 60’s and early 70’s. Mark loved watching old black and white “horror” movies and the Sherlock Holmes series of mystery movies.

Mark is survived by his loving and caring wife and best friend of 46 years, Gail Marie Schumacher; sons, Paul Schumacher and Nathan Schumacher; mother, Janet Schumacher; sister, Linda Fastiggi of New Jersey; aunt, Martha Rasmussen, of Texas; brother-in-law, Gregg Wehrend and wife, Lynn; sister-in-law, Valeta Boyd; very special longtime friend, Janet Leonard of Ohio; as well as numerous nieces, nephew, cousins and friends. His small, special canine friend, Elly, is still awaiting his return home.

The family will receive family and friends for a time of visitation on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., in the chapel of John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home, Salem. Funeral Services will be conducted on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at St. John Lutheran Church, 4608 Brambleton Ave., Roanoke, Va., with Father Steve Kelley officiating. Interment immediately following in Sherwood Memorial Park, Salem.