Margaret Schomisch

Through the life she lived each day, Margaret Schomisch taught us that happiness is not found in building wealth or fame, but that true joy is found in loving and serving others. She was an extraordinary mother who selflessly cared for her children, but it was watching her family tree grow to include grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren that was her greatest reward. Although Marge had an unwavering faith she was never overbearing or boisterous in her beliefs, but in living her faith she exemplified what it means to be the hands and feet of her heavenly Father. With the love of her life by her side for nearly 60 years, Marge created a brilliant mosaic of memories that will be treasured for a lifetime.

Nestled within the vibrant decade of the Roaring Twenties was the year 1923 that was laced with several noteworthy events. This was the year that Calvin Coolidge was sworn into office, the first game was played in Yankee Stadium, and the world’s first portable radio was developed. This year was a year to remember in the lives of one young couple from Roanoke, Virginia, for a much different reason as they were thrilled to welcome a healthy baby girl into their hearts and home on June 12th. Baby Margaret was the middle of three girls born to her parents, Frederick and Estelle (Walters) Swann. She was raised in the family home in Roanoke alongside her sisters, June and Virginia. Margaret’s father worked at a local rayon mill while her mother owned a general store for a time and also tended to the needs of her family. Their family kept a large garden in which Marge helped her father.

In many ways Marge experienced an upbringing that was reflective of the times. She fell in love with western novels, especially those authored by Louie L’Amour. As a young girl Marge developed an ear problem that affected her hearing later in life. She attended local schools, graduating from Jefferson High School.

Ready to embark on the next phase in her life’s journey, Marge moved to Washington, D. C. where she worked in the typing pool at the war department. Shortly thereafter her life was forever changed when she met the man with whom she would share a lifetime of love. His name was Ronald Schomisch, and they were set up on a blind date. At the time Marge lived in a boarding house so he was not allowed to come in, but the young couple dated on her front porch. Just nine weeks later as the weather got chilly, Marge and Ronald were married on October 15, 1942, in the Walter Reed Army Hospital where he was serving. Not long after, he was shipped overseas to Europe so she moved to Michigan to live with his family. This was quite a culture shock for Marge since she was a city girl who found herself living in the country in a home with no indoor plumbing or electricity! She did learn how to drive, although she had secretly driven to town on more than one occasion before she actually had her license.

Together Marge and Ronald were blessed with five children: Ronald, Joyce, Ardith, Bette, and Bruce. When her children were younger she stayed home to focus her attention on raising their children. Marge was an amazing cook who always made more than enough to go around and kept abreast of every different person’s favorite food. Some of her family’s favorite dishes were her fried chicken and macaroni salad, and her table usually included some of the fresh fruit that Marge grew. They also had a chicken that would chase Marge every time she was outside - at least until she got her final revenge! When her family was sick or hurting she was a bit unconventional in her treatment as she was always looking to homeopathic methods. Marge only resorted to medicine if it was absolutely necessary, and she had a “magic” salve recipe she received from a couple from England that she used on everything.

There were so many things that kept Marge busy through the years. After her children were a bit older she went back into the workforce. For a time she worked in the restaurant within the hotel in Fowler. Marge later took a job at Becker Furniture where she remained for 20 years before retiring in 1982. She was a fantastic artist who specialized in oil painting, and every family member was proud to have one, or more, of her paintings in their home. Together Marge and Ronald loved dancing and were members of the Maple Twirlers Square Dance Club for more than 20 years. They even square danced at their 50th anniversary party! For several years they made annual trips to Florida and Virginia, and Marge also enjoyed going to the Clare County Fair.

Throughout her life Marge’s faith was a cornerstone. She was raised in the Brethren Church but converted to Catholicism when she married Ronald. Marge was devout in her faith, praying the rosary every day. She was a member of Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, the Christian Mothers Association, and Daughters of Isabella.

With a heart that beat to love others, Marge was always focused on those around her. She loved babies and was thrilled when her children grew older and brought spouses and grandchildren into the family. Whenever the opportunity arose, Marge would always stick up for her sons-in-law. She never forgot a birthday and was continually loving and concerned about her family and friends. There was no one who could make Marge smile like her grandchildren and her son, Butch, and she loved learning new games to teach her grandchildren.

Margaret Schomisch was an extraordinary woman in so many ways. She was always happy, going about her day whistling and humming, and anxious to share her joy with those around her. Marge will be remembered for her overflowing table, her open home, and her compassionate heart. She will be deeply missed.

Margaret “Marge” E. Schomisch died on July 9, 2012. Marge’s family includes her five children, Ronald Schomisch, Jr. of Farwell, Joyce Bushard of Lansing, Ardith (David) Miller of Fowler, Bette (Allen) Dault of Lapeer and Bruce Schomisch of Ionia; 12 grand children; 27 great-grandchildren and 6 great-great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Ray Schomisch; sister-in-law, Marcella Trierweiler; and many nieces and nephews. Marge was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sisters, June Hoal and Virginia Emmons; brothers-in-law, Lefty Hoal and Howard Emmons; and daughter-in-law, Billie Lou Schomisch. Funeral Mass will be celebrated 10:30 a.m. Thursday, July 12, 2012, at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Fowler, burial to follow at Most Holy Trinity Cemetery. The family will receive friends 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. on Wednesday at the Goerge Chapel of the Osgood Funeral Homes in Fowler, with a rosary prayed at 8 p.m. Wednesday. Memorial contributions may be made in her name to Most Holy Trinity Seminarian Fund or Great Lakes Hospice. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com/memories/81774 to leave a memory. The family is being served by the Osgood Funeral Home.