Madeline R. Schafer

Madeline R. Schafer, 86, passed away at home with her family by her side on Thursday, Dec. 3, 2015 under the care of Hospice of Lenawee. She was born on December 19, 1928, the daughter of Ferdinand and Lily (Radebach) Lange in Taylor, Mich. On August 18, 1951 she married Ralph G. Schafer and they shared 64 loving years together.

Madeline was a member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church of Britton, Mich., where she was a Sunday school teacher for over 35 years. She was a member of the Women’s Guild, organized quilting groups to make quilts for world relief. She was an avid Tigers fan since the 1940’s, an avid bowler and gardener, she loved to grow and work in her flower gardens. Madeline will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother who enjoyed her family.

Madeline is survived by her loving husband, Ralph; children, Susan (Frank) Cunningham-Enos of Onsted, Mich., Keith (Cheryl) Schafer of Adrian, Mich., Alan (Tracey) Schafer, Scott (Laura) Schafer, all of Onsted, Mich., and Ruthann (Jeffrey) Austin of Anchorage, Alaska; former daughter-in-law, Rene Kullman; and a former son-in-law, Paul Cunningham; 15 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; sisters, Evelyn Grantner, Shirley Stephenson; and sister-in-law, Donna Lange.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sons, Jack in infancy and Jeffery Schafer; one sister; and two brothers.

Funeral services for Madeline were held on Monday, Dec. 7, 2015 at 11 a.m. at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 9950 Ridge Highway, Britton, Mich., with Rev. Dave McCarty officiating.

Burial followed at Brookside Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Lutheran Women’s Missionary League or Hospice of Lenawee.

Condolences may be offered to the family at www.handlerfuneralhomes.com.