Edwin “Ed” Peter Schumacher’s life can best be described in three words: faith, family, and farming. From the moment he was born on July 6, 1931, on the family farm to when he passed peacefully in his sleep on August 13, 2024, at the age of 93, Ed redefined what it meant to be a gracious, humble man working amongst God’s country in Loretto, Minnesota.

Born to Alex and Agnes (Klaers) Schumacher, Ed was the second of four children. His deep appreciation for farming began young. He learned the ropes from his grandfathers, who Ed shared a strong connection with growing up. When he wasn’t milking the cows or tending the fields, he attended the Academy of Saints Peter and Paul through eighth grade, and went on to graduate from Mound High School in 1949. Ed wrestled in high school and was a member off the A.A.U. Wrestling State Championship team in 1949 – and then later while in the Army he won the Fort Bliss championship and went on to win the 4th Army Tournament (heavyweight).   In 2013, he was inducted into the Mound High School Wrestling Hall of Fame.

After graduating, Ed served his country as a radio repair technician during the Korean War. Upon returning from service, he purchased the farm directly across the highway from the house he was raised in. This land would go on to become the home where he would raise his own family with the love of his life, Mary (Cavanaugh) Schumacher. Ed and Mary were wed on May 30, 1958, and the couple was blessed with five children.

Following retirement, Ed and Mary became proud snowbirds, spending winters in Arizona, golfing and soaking up the sun. He loved golfing, bowling, playing cards with friends, and gathering for holidays, where he contently watched over his ever-growing family. Right up until the end, Ed never failed to surprise those around him with a signature witty one-liner that brought the biggest smile to your face.