Obituary of Mary Jo Schimpf

Mary Jo Schimpf, a faith-filled and selfless soul, passed away peacefully due to natural causes on December 18, 2024, in Clare, Michigan. Born on July 27, 1936, in Lansing, Michigan, Mary Jo lived a life marked by love, dedication, and joy, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by all who knew her.

Mary Jo was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Josephine Lunsford, and her beloved husband, LeRoy Schimpf. Her memory will be treasured by her brother, Monsignor Robert Lunsford of Dewitt, Michigan; her sister, Jeanne Messing (Bruce) of Nebo, North Carolina; her niece, Tamara Trotter (Kevin) of Pittsboro, NC; nephews, Thomas Messing (Shannon) and Robert Messing (Maryana), both of Charlotte, NC; extended nephew, John Bridges (Christine) of Sheboygan, WI; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews who will miss her dearly.

Mary Jo's life was one of service and commitment. Starting her career at Saint Lawrence Hospital, she would later join Oldsmobile, where she devoted many years of hard work and dedication. Her professional life was a testament to her strong work ethic and her ability to form lasting relationships with her colleagues.

Her interests and hobbies were as vibrant and diverse as her personality. Mary Jo was an ardent fan of her local sports teams, including the Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers (except when they faced off against the Lions), the Detroit Tigers, and the Michigan State Spartans. In her younger days, she was an active member of a ski club and the Girls Club at Oldsmobile. Her competitive spirit shone brightly when she played dominoes or cards, often exclaiming "You Ninny!" during the games, much to the delight of those around her.

Mary Jo and LeRoy shared a love for travel, exploring the world together and creating a tapestry of memories. They eventually built their dream home in Sugar Springs in 1989, where Mary Jo could often be found by the window, engaging with nature. She took great pleasure in feeding the birds, playfully shooing away the squirrels, and freezing in awe at the sight of deer grazing just outside the window. 

An avid golfer and bowler, Mary Jo enjoyed the camaraderie and challenges these sports provided. Her love for these activities was only surpassed by the time she spent with her loved ones, cherishing every moment and every shared experience.

Mary Jo's life was a reflection of her faith; she lived with a loving and giving heart, always putting others before herself. Her warmth, kindness, and generous spirit touched many lives, and her absence will be deeply felt by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with her.

As we bid farewell to Mary Jo, we celebrate the remarkable woman she was and the countless ways in which she enriched our lives. Her laughter, her love, and her unwavering spirit will continue to inspire us. Mary Jo Schimpf will be profoundly missed, but her light will continue to shine in the hearts of those she left behind.

The family will hold a private Catholic Funeral Mass at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests those planning an expression of sympathy to consider memorial contributions Compassus Hospice of Michigan at 5889 Bay Road, Suite 103, Saginaw, MI 48604.  To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com  Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan.

 

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