John Schumer

John Steven Schumer, 70, passed away peacefully April 12, 2021 at his home in Grand Forks, surrounded by his loving family.

John was born July 31, 1950 to Ardell and Lucille (Cox) Schumer in Grand Forks, ND. He grew up in Grand Forks and graduated from Central High School in 1969.   He attended NDSCS in Wahpeton, ND and earned a certificate in Plumbing.  He then promptly hired on to the Burlington Northern Railroad as a brakeman, eventually becoming a Locomotive Engineer, continuing a family legacy which lasted over 100  years as the third generation Locomotive Engineer.

On September 29, 1973 a perfect union was formed when he married Dorene Gail Berge in Grand Forks.   They spent their lives together in Grand Forks and Strawberry Lake, MN and shared 47 wonderful years together.  They raised one son and two daughters.

John’s life centered around his family. They shared numerous, fantastic experiences together which included many camping trips, travelling to national parks and exploring the mountains.  He steadfastly supported his children and grandchildren in their varied interests.  John was always eager to lend a hand.  He will be remembered for his strength, perseverance, dependability, work ethic, friendship, kindness towards others and his big booming laugh.

John loved to travel out west, especially the backroads by motorcycle.  He very much enjoyed studying various road maps and atlases, plotting his next course, in discovery of that perfect ride.  He also loved dogs and will be missed by his loyal companion Harley.

He is survived by his wife, Dorene, son John (Jill), Tulsa, OK, daughters Angela (Shaun) Litzinger, Grand Forks, ND, Kristie (Matt) Aarvig, Grand Forks, ND; five grandsons, two step-grandchildren; one sister, Connie (Jim) Pedersen, Mesa, AZ; several nieces and nephews; mother-in-law Pearl Berge and several loving in-laws. John was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held Saturday, April 17, 2021 from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m at Amundson Funeral Home, Grand Forks.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 17, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at Amundson Funeral Home, Grand Forks.