Beloved wife, mother and “Grandma Boo”, following a courageous and dignified battle with cancer, Paula earned her reward. Paula leaves behind to cherish her memory her husband John Schamber, daughter Jocelyn Johnson (Darren), sons Keith Bridger (Brooke Jamison) and Eric Van Buren. She also leaves behind her much loved grandchildren: Kristian Johnson (Brittany Holmes), Gregory Johnson and Monica Johnson. Paula also leaves behind John’s family: his children Mike (Cindy), Cathy (Chris), Rick (Ingrid), Al, and Leanne (David), their children and grandchildren along with John’s siblings and their spouses. She is predeceased by her parents Georges (Van) and Irene Van Buren and her sister Sandra Van Buren.
Paula was born in The Pas Manitoba in 1941. She enjoyed a childhood full of love and happiness in the midst of her large extended family, but her ambitions extended beyond the northern Manitoba town. At the tender age of 17, she moved to Winnipeg to embark on her university education. She earned a master’s degree in chemistry, which was an extraordinary achievement for a woman in the early 1960s.
While she achieved success in academics and research, Paula’s main focus turned to her three children while living in Edmonton, Alberta. She was a loving and devoted mother. She was her children’s number one fan, and never failed to provide unconditional love, even during difficult times.
In 1982, following the break-up of her first marriage, Paula returned to Winnipeg, Manitoba. She began her second round of university education at the age of 40. She received a bachelor of computer science degree in 1986. Paula excelled in her career as a computer programmer with the City of Winnipeg and the Province of Manitoba. She was a conscientious and committed employee, and earned the respect of her colleagues as a result of her integrity and hard work.
Paula found love again later in life. In 2006, Paula married John Schamber. Paula and John enjoyed their lives together. They travelled, visited with family and friends, and shared a commitment to their Catholic faith through their volunteer service with Mary Mother of the Church Parish, particularly as the children’s choir director for many years. John was a devoted husband to the end.
Throughout the course of her life, Paula exemplified quiet strength, kindness and love. She will be missed, but never forgotten.
A funeral mass will be held in her honour at 10:30 am on Tuesday May 8, 2018 at Mary Mother of the Church Parish, 85 Kirkbridge Drive in Winnipeg. Father Kevin Bettens will preside. A private interment for family will follow.
‘She is clothed with strength and dignity, and laughs at the days to come.’ Proverbs 31:25
