William “Lee” Schumacher
William “Lee” Schumacher, 91, of Charlotte, a beloved coach, teacher, husband, father, and grandfather, died peacefully on Saturday, March 8, 2025 in Charlotte. Lee was born December 4, 1933 in Harbor Beach, MI, the son of John and Josephine (Kramer) Schumacher. Growing up, Lee loved to play sports, a passion that would shape his entire life. He earned his teaching degree from Central Michigan University before starting his career as a physical education teacher and coach. His first post was as football coach in Hillman, MI, where he earned a place in the local athletic hall of fame. He went on to St. Clair Shores, and eventually Olivet, MI, where he and his beloved wife, Edna, raised their family. Lee’s family remembers him always listening to sports on the AM station in the car and was always talking about the game! He taught driver’s education for over 40 years, and his beloved stature as “coach” led him to touch the lives of countless students, many of whom kept in touch with him to the very end.
In retirement, Lee loved time spent up at Long Lake in Hale, MI, where he loved to hunt and play cards with his friends and family. Lee’s social nature also led him to remain active in his later years. He sold Northrup King Seeds all over the area and delivered Meals on Wheels, both were perfect for his gregarious nature. Lee loved food. He was never late for dinner, and he even was known to engage his family in friendly “eating competitions.” Lee leaves a legacy of love and care for all he knew.
Lee is survived by his son, John Schumacher; daughters, Tama (Fred Wieting IV) Boucher, and Shyla Tailor; grandchildren, Jessica (Greg) Adamczyk, Julie (Jason) Baker, Rhiana Tailor and India Tailor; great-grandchildren, Cole, Emma, Jameson, and Carson. He was predeceased by his loving wife of 62 years, Edna Schumacher; his parents; and five siblings.
Friends are encouraged to support Lee’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. with a Rosary Service at 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 13, 2025 at Pray Funeral Home. Funeral services were at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 14, 2025 at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating. Interment will take place in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte. The funeral was webcasted so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Lee’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Olivet High School Athletic Department. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.