Genevieve (Kelly) Schaefer

Genevieve (Kelly) Schaefer, 90, Pittsburgh, formerly of Westmont, passed away on January 8, 2023.

Born July 25, 1932 in Beaver Falls, PA, daughter of Leon W. and Margaret Mary (Wyrough) Kelly. Preceded in death by parents; husband Thomas J. to whom she was married for 52 years; and son, Michael J. Schaefer. Survived by children Thomas L. Schaefer and wife Dianne, of Venetia, PA; Matthew J, Schaefer of Pittsburgh, PA; Margaret Mary (Meg) Schaefer and husband Steven Katter of Ridgewood, NJ; John K. Schaefer and fiancée Lisa Petco-Self of Pittsburgh, Pa; and William W. Schaefer and wife Cathy, of Pittsburgh, PA. Also survived by grandchildren Jacklyn, Alyssa, Zachary, Katherine, Jane, Cole and Lillian Schaefer.

Gene was a woman of intelligence, beauty, grace, love, and principle. She was a long-time member of Our Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church, strong in her faith, and a good friend to many. She was a graduate of Georgetown University, receiving one of the first Baccalaureate Degrees in Nursing bestowed by the University on the Class of 1955. She served as President of the Cambria County Association for Retarded Citizens, a role she held dear, and assumed after the birth of her son, Michael, who had Down Syndrome. Upon Michael’s birth in 1965, she and her husband, against the advice of many, made the decision to raise him at home. All who know the family can attest to the important role Mikey played in the lives of his family and in the community. In subsequent years.

Gene and Tom were very active in counseling parents of newborn special needs children. An avid reader, Gene taught literacy at the Cambria County Library and the Great Books program at Our Mother of Sorrows School. Her ability to complete the Sunday New York Times Crossword Puzzle impressed many. She was a Cub Scout Den Mother, a repeat 9 Hole Champion at Sunnehanna CC, and an enthusiastic traveler.

Gene finally succumbed to her lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.  In lieu of flowers, donations to The Alzheimer’s Foundation or Special Olympics are suggested.

Friends will be received at Frank Duca Funeral Home, Westmont Chapel, 1622 Menoher Blvd. from 4-7 PM on Tuesday, January 10, 2023

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Mother of Sorrows at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, January 11, 2023. Fr. Mark Begly. All are welcome.

Condolences and other information can be found at www.ducafuneralhome.com.

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