Cathy Janis Schumm

Cathy Janis Schumm, 69, of Orange County, California, passed away on December 8, 2023, in Mission Viejo, California. Cathy was born on December 22, 1953, in Culver City. She was a mother, sister, grandmother, and friend.

Cathy, known affectionately as Jan, experienced a life often mis-understood. She somehow always found a way to navigate life's many challenges both large and small. She had a great sense of humor up to her last days. She had a deep love for nature and found solace in spending time outdoors. Jan had a particular fondness for creative expression in many forms and was especially talented in writing poetry. She loved horses, and in her early years had her very own Appaloosa. While living in Oregon, she applied focus on herself and took courses at the local college , achieving straight A's. She participated in local NAMI programs, graduating and helping others in need of companionship.

In her best moments, Jan could be found enjoying various hobbies that brought her joy. She loved singing, painting, and dancing, expressing her creativity through various artistic outlets. Additionally, she found fulfillment exploring the natural wonders around her. She was especially fond of running water streams, evergreen trees and the ocean.

Jan is survived by her son, Grant Sigafoos, and her daughter, Kirsten Jenkins. She is also survived by her two brothers, Randy Schumm and Steve Schumm. She was preceded in death by her mother, Catherine I. Schumm, her father, Gregory Schumm and brother, Dale "Mike" Schumm.

Jan will be remembered for her resiliency, vibrant spirit, her love for nature, and her determination to seek independence from her illness. May her soul find eternal peace.

Jan's love for nature has inspired her next journey. Instead of funeral services, she will be returned to the earth through the process of Terramation, eventually helping reforest land in King County, Washington. If you'd like to honor her, please research options how we all could contribute to the environment by reducing the human footprint through the process of Terramation upon death. She would be proud to know she made a positive impact by educating others.