Carole M. (Long) Schaefer, 89, of Lawton, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at Vineyard Assisted Living, Kalamazoo. She was born Dec. 28, 1933, in Chicago, the daughter of Martin Long and Stephanie (Rainie) Long.
Carole had many hobbies and interests throughout her 89 years of life. She was an avid book reader and a member of the Lawton Book Club. She also was a very active member of the East Van Buren County Seniors club and the Bronson Lakeview Auxiliary club. She also worked at the Community Thrift Shop, Paw Paw. Every month, Carole would get together with her old coworkers from Kalamazoo, and have dinner. She also met once a month for lunch with the Class of 1951, Paw Paw High School. Carole had a huge love for Willie Nelson. She and Julius traveled around the country to see him perform in concert. She also traveled the country with her beloved children to show them the world. They enjoyed many camping and fishing trips as a family.
On March 23, 1952, she married Julius H. Schaefer, who preceded her in death, April 5, 2017.
She is survived by her four sons, Paul (Carla), Keith (Sandy), Ronald (Susan) and Gary (Stacy) Schaefer: 13 grandchildren: 18 great-grandchildren: two great-great-grandchildren; brother, Donald (Sis) Long; and her daughter-in-law, Elizabeth Schaefer.
Carole was preceded in death by her son, David Schaefer.
Family and friends are invited to visit Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024, from 10 a.m. to noon at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 63855 M-40 Highway, Lawton, where a celebration of life service will be held at noon with Pastor Ashlei Horn officiating. Following services, there will be a time of food and fellowship at the church. Interment will then follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Lawton.
Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, Lawton. Share a memory or sign the online guest book at www.adamspawpaw.com