Donald M. Schumacher

Donald M. Schumacher, age 81, passed away Friday, February 27, 2026, at Valley Senior Living surrounded by family.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be held in the Spring at Drayton Cemetery in Drayton, North Dakota.

Donald Melvin Schumacher was born in Drayton, North Dakota, on July 7, 1944, to Melvin and Anna (Helm) Schumacher. He was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church in Drayton. After graduating from Drayton High School, Don received a scholarship to play football at Mayville State College, where he graduated with his bachelor’s degree in 1966. For over 33 years, Don dedicated himself as a teacher and coach, inspiring countless students in Watertown, South Dakota, Kensal, North Dakota, North Shore, North Dakota, and eventually retired in Grafton, North Dakota after 29 years with the school district as an art teacher.

Don was a devoted Christian and prayer warrior; he found strength and solace in his faith which guided him through life and was an active member at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Grand Forks for many years. He held a special love for his sisters and family and always made sure they received heartful handwritten cards for birthdays and holidays. Don was an avid sports enthusiast and delighted in the thrill of sport games and the stories behind the statistics. Yet it was his extraordinary talent for art that truly defined him. From childhood, art was his passion—a passion that transformed into a successful career. He not only nurtured his own artistic spirit but also encouraged many of his students to embrace their creativity through art shows and exhibitions; he enjoyed when students would catch up with him and share their accomplishments. His intelligence, wit, and kindness will be deeply missed.

Donald is survived by his sisters, Jean Peppard, Irene Anderson, Ruth Mattson, and Marlys (Ray) Long; and many nieces and nephews.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Anna Schumacher; sister, Doris Jensen; and infant brother, Alvin Schumacher.