Rebecca Reil Schaefer

Mrs. Schaefer passed away on Sunday, May 21, 2023 at New Hope Bay Assisted Living at the age of 95. The daughter of the late John and Elizabeth (Krause) Berg was born December 13, 1927 in Unionville, Michigan. Her parents were proud Russian immigrants, strong Christians, hardworking and came to America to be part of a great free country. Rebecca enjoyed working at Prestolite, where she retired from after 42 years of service. On April 26, 1947 she married the love of her life, James Schaefer in Sebewaing, Michigan who preceded her in death on June 2, 2014.

Mrs. Schaefer is survived by her five children, Dr. James (Debra) Schaefer of Arizona, Dr. Dwight (Debra) Schaefer of Arizona, Debra (Russell) Dinsmore of Munger, Pat Schaefer (Michelle Whittaker) of Midland and Michael (Kelly) Schaefer of Bay City; 13 grandchildren; Erin (Chuck) Chisholm , Jamie (Rob) Otis, Kristen (Scott) Reigelsperger, Megan (Brian) Otis, Ryan Schaefer (Nailea Gomez), Beth (Daniel) Steddum, Russell (Kristi) Dinsmore, Nicholas (Abbey) Dinsmore, Jennifer (David) Gallagher, Morgan (Wade) Humphrey, Bailey Schaefer, Josh (Ashley) Schaefer and Kayla (Jacob) Helmreich and 19 great grandchildren. A special thank you to John (Barb) Hofmeister and to the many other nieces, nephews and her wonderful and caring neighbors. In addition to her parents and husband, Mrs. Schaefer was also preceded in death by her brother and sisters, Emma Balzer, Ella Hofmeister, Elsie (Heiler) Bartlett, John Henry Berg and Frieda Knoll.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the amazing Cardinal Hospice team that helped our family through our difficult time. Special thank you also to our family and staff at New Hope Bay Assisted Living, who have been so loving and supportive, providing mom with special care as she entered into her eternal home.

Funeral and Committal services will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 30, 2023 at Zion Lutheran Church. Officiating will be Pastor Phillip Baerwolf with private interment following in Floral Gardens Cemetery. Visiting will take place at Zion Lutheran Church on Tuesday, May 30, 2023 from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to Cardinal Hospice or Zion Lutheran Church.