KATHRYN SCHAFER
Posted: August 9th, 2023
Forever In Our Hearts
Kathryn Schafer
1931 – 2023
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kathryn Marie Schafer on August 5, 2023, at the age of 92 years, beloved wife of the late Adam Schafer. Born to Raymond and Susanne Haaf of Fox Valley, Saskatchewan, Kathryn’s life story began in the prairie fields, where she grew up on the family farm, attending Keebleville school before relocating to Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, to pursue her high school education. After completing her studies, Kathryn embarked on an eight year journey of dedication and service with the Imperial Bank of Canada in Moose Jaw.
Following her heart, Kathryn embraced change and transferred to the newly built Imperial Bank of Canada in Medicine Hat. For two more years, she lent her expertise to the loans and investment department, leaving an indelible mark on the institution. In a twist of fate and through the bonds of family and friends, Kathryn met the love of her life, Adam Schafer. United in matrimony on October 28, 1961, they embarked on a life of shared dreams and steadfast support on the Schafer homestead, nestled 7 1/2 miles NE of Schuler. Their union was marked by resilience in tough times, gratitude in the good, and an enduring faith that would inspire those around them. The birth of their daughter, Valerie Susanne in January 1967, marked another chapter of love and devotion. In 1973, they moved to Schuler as Valerie started school, and later built their retirement home in Medicine Hat in January 1989. Even in semi-retirement, their adventurous spirit shone through as they explored new horizons with family and friends, creating lasting memories. Tragedy struck in 2017 when Adam passed away after 56 years of marriage. Yet, Kathryn faced this chapter with remarkable grace and an unshakeable resolve. She embraced change with a gentle strength, a testament to her unyielding character. Their home, a testament of her tenacity, served as her sanctuary until the end. Kathryn was a beacon of light within her community, actively engaging as a member of the CWL for many years. Family gatherings, card games, and shared celebrations were dear to her heart, and her culinary prowess brought warmth and joy to all who had the privilege of tasting her creations. Beyond her accomplishments, Kathryn’s greatest joy was her role as a grandmother. With D’Jhonna and Brent, she found the profound fulfillment of guiding, nurturing, and loving her grandchildren. As they grew, Kathryn’s wisdom transitioned into unwavering support and friendship, completing the beautiful tapestry and final chapter of her life. Kathryn Marie Schafer is survived by her loving daughter Valerie (Lionel) Folk, grandchildren D’Jhonna and Brent Folk, sister Beverly Hatch, sister-in-law Shirley Schafer, and a host of cherished friends and family members. She was predeceased by her parents Raymond and Susanne Haaf, sister Anne (Mike) Dirk and brother-in-law Robert Hatch; Adam’s family: his parents Alexander and Matilda Schafer and his siblings, Rose (Adam) Rieder, Elizabeth (Andrew) Schile, John J. Schafer, Bill (Rose) Schafer, Daniel Schafer, Sally (Henry)Fischer, Emanuel (Mabel) Schafer; as well as numerous beloved relatives and friends. In her passing, Kathryn leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and an unwavering faith that touched the lives of all who knew her. Her memory will forever be etched in our hearts, an enduring reminder of the power of family, friendship, and the strength of the human spirit.
Those who wish to pay their respects may do so one hour prior to the prayer service and one hour prior to the mass. Family and friends will gather for prayers at the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Sunday, August 13, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. The prayer service will be live streamed. Those who wish to attend virtually, please visit www.pattisonfuneralhome.comand select live streaming, then select the youtube (arrow). The funeral mass will be celebrated in the Holy Family Parish (1451 Strachan Road SE) on Monday, August 14, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. with Fr. Iqbal Khurshid Celebrant. Those who wish to attend the funeral mass virtually, please do so at www.youtube.com/Medicine Hat Holy Family Church or follow this link:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG6zK-XzuXdDHj79rV6ut_Q. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her honor to Holy Family Parish or a charity of your choice.
To leave a message of condolence you may visit www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.
PATTISON FUNERAL HOME
AND CREMATORIUM
540 South Railway St. SE,
Medicine Hat T1A 4C2
Valerie and Family
May you find Peace in all those wonderful memories of your mother, grandmother .
Hold those memories close to your heart and she will live on in you and your children .
Chuck & Bernie Gutfriend
Valerie & Family
My deepest condolences to you and your family.
The memories you have will be with you all forever memories last forever . All the best in the weeks ahead.
Carol & Dan Schiebelbein / Hammel
Dear Valerie and Family,
Our condolences to you in the loss of your mother & grandmother.
Dear Valerie, Lionel and family…
Our deepest sympathy to you in the loss of your beloved Mom.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Hope all the fond memories you have will help to ease the sorrow you feel.
Verna and Delvin Moch
Heartfelt sympathy to you, Valerie and family.
I think back with joy to many card games and the laughter and friendship we shared for many years.
Katherine will remain in my fond memories.
Gladys
Valerie and Family – So sorry to hear that your mother passed away. Your dad and her were wonderful Schafer’s to have in our family. Your mom was instrumental in providing information in the planning of the Schafer reunion in 2011. We will forever remember her – our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. Further, the Mass celebration by Patterson’s was a beautiful tribute and will be a nice remembrance of her. Raymond and Marilyn – (Schuler) and now Calgary.