Doris Mae Schaefer

Doris Mae Johnson Schaefer, our beloved matriarch affectionately known as “Grammy,” passed away peacefully on June 26, 2024 surrounded by her family. Doris was born on February 10, 1925, in Beech Grove, Indiana, to the late John and Mildred (Baldwin) Johnson.

Doris’s journey began with a serendipitous meeting with her future husband, Michael G. Schaefer, on the baseball field where her father coached. They married on June 1, 1946, and their union lasted an incredible 64 years. Doris was the proud mother of Michael J. Schaefer, Patrick J. Schaefer (Nancy), Rebecca S. Arnold, Kevin J. Schaefer (Gail), Susan J. McClain (Kevin). She is also survived by her daughter in law Paula M. Schaefer. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Mildred Johnson, her brother, John Ferman Johnson, her husband, Michael G. Schaefer, her son, Steven J. Schaefer, her grandson, Michael J. Schaefer, and her son-in-law, Truman Arnold.

Doris was the co-owner of Kid Stuff store located in Glendale Shopping Center. She was an avid and good Gin Rummy player, enjoyed golf and cherished her time at Lake Wawasee, where she most recently celebrated Memorial Day and watched the Indy 500 with friends and family. She was a longtime member of Meridian Hills Country Club, Hillcrest Country Club, The Columbia Club, The Athletic Club, and several other organizations. She was a devoted sports fan and enjoyed cheering for the Indianapolis Colts and Purdue Boilermakers.

Doris instilled in her family the importance of living an honest and honorable life, embracing others without judgment. Her life was a testament to living fully and with grace, making everyone feel special and encouraging them to follow their dreams. She loved her country, believed in democracy, and inspired young people to make a difference for others and the community.

Our “Grammy”, the classiest lady we’ve ever known, with her keen fashion sense, quick wit, and strong will, will forever be loved. We are truly grateful for her life and encourage everyone to raise a toast to her today.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Monday, July 1st, 2024, for a visitation from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at St. Matthew Catholic Church, 4100 E. 56th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46220, followed by A Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Doris to the following: ALS United Greater Chicago, ( https://donate.alsunitedchicago.org ) or you can mail a check to 5315 N. Clark St., #650, Chicago, IL, 60640; Schaefer Family Scholarship Fund at Cathedral High School, 5225 E. 56th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46226 (https://www.gocathedral.com/ ); and Miracle Place, 940 Temple Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46201 (https://amiracleplace.org/ ).

Leppert Mortuary – Nora Chapel assisting with arrangements. You may visit www.leppertmortuary.com to share a memory or condolence.