Loretta M. Schafer

Loretta M. Schafer, 87 of Bonita Springs, FL passed away Monday, April 24, 2023 at her residence. Formerly of South Bend, IN she had been a resident of Bonita Springs for the past 34 years. She was born March 9, 1936 in South Bend, a daughter of the late Julius A. and Aletha C. (Helmlinger) Szalay. Survivors include her children, Bryan T. Schafer and his wife, Lisa of Cincinnati, OH, Scott A. Schafer and his wife, Jeanne of Granger, IN, Renee M. Williams and her husband, Buddy of Auburn, AL; daughter-in-law, Carolyn Ellington of Seymour, IN; 9 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas C. Schafer in 2019; son, Randy L. Schafer in 2023; brother, James Szalay; and sister, Dolores Voss. Loretta married her high school sweetheart, Tom Schafer in 1957, quickly bearing four children and building a beautiful life together for 62 years. Loretta simply loved people and loved to laugh. Loretta will be remembered for her love for planning and hosting events. Her personality was infectious, and she was the life of a party with her wonderful sense of humor and fun-loving antics. Loretta was a gifted seamstress, cook and gardener, and she also enjoyed traveling. For nearly thirty years Loretta and Tom spent summers at their residence in South Bend. There, they tended their beautiful gardens and entertained family and friends. Loretta always hosted a large family reunion at her beloved “Riverside Retreat.” As an avid golfer, Loretta helped pioneer women’s golf in South Bend at the newly developed Elbel Golf Course in 1964. Many of Loretta’s dearest friends came from her love of golf and the many tournaments and events that she participated in. She was an active part of the civic communities in South Bend and Bonita Springs for 50 years. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, May 6, 2023 at 9:30 AM at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church, 28300 Beaumont Rd., Bonita Springs, FL 34134. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial donations in her memory be made to Hope Hospice 27200 Imperial Pkwy., Bonita Springs, FL 34135. Online condolences may be offered by visiting www.ShikanyFuneralHome.com. Arrangements are being handled by Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home Family Owned and Operated since 1978.

Loretta M. Schafer

March 9, 1936 - April 24, 2023