Col. David J. Schumacher, 95, of Lancaster, PA, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 20, 2025.
Born in Seymour, Indiana, to the late John G. and Eva M. Schumacher, he graduated from Bedford High School in 1947. David lived a life marked by honor, service, and deep love for his family and country.
A proud veteran, David dedicated 35 years of his life to the United States Army, rising to the rank of Colonel. His commitment to service defined him, and even after retiring from the military, he continued to contribute through 14 years of civilian work at Lockheed Martin. Not one to sit still, David brought his energy, leadership, and charisma wherever he went.
It was during his military service in Tokyo, Japan, that David met the love of his life, Kay (Bertha), a lieutenant in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC), who became his loving wife for the next 65 years. Together, they traveled the world, including two tours of duty in Germany, one assignment to Oslo, Norway, and various assignments throughout the US. In service to his country, David served one tour in Korea and two tours in Vietnam. They eventually settled in Lancaster in 2000 to be closer to their family.
For the past 25 years, David was a faithful member of St. Leo the Great Catholic Church. He was also a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, 2nd Degree, and the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA). David had a love for nonfiction literature, especially books focused on history, politics, and global conflicts. He also loved to walk miles every day, often accompanied by his faithful dog, Zoe.
He is survived by his loving daughter, Deborah Johnson, wife of Kevin; his grandsons, Mathew Johnson, husband of Tiffany, and Jeremiah Johnson; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Elliott, Jett, and Jace.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, with whom he will now be reunited in eternal rest.
A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church on Monday, April 28, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Guests are invited to attend a visitation from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. before the service. David will be laid to rest following Mass at St. Joseph New Catholic Cemetery, alongside his wife.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a veterans’ charity of your choice. David’s legacy of patriotism, family, and service will live on in all who knew and loved him.
Local information and arrangements have been entrusted to Ferguson-Lee Chapel of Thorne George Family Funeral Homes.
Memories and condolences may be shared and flowers ordered at www.FergusonLee.com.
