ALBERT BENJAMIN SCHUMACHER, SR

AUGUST 21, 1944-SEPTEMBER 4, 2023

Albert (Al) B Schumacher, Sr passed away peacefully on September 4, 2023, while in comfort care at the Monument Health Center in Rapid City, SD.

Al was born on August 21, 1944 in Parkston, SD.  His parents were Albert N Schumacher, and Magdalene (Lippert) Schumacher. He grew up in Hartford SD, and Edgemont, SD.  He lived in Brandon, SD during the 1970's and early 1980s.

He worked several different jobs in his life.  He worked at John Morrell and Company for several years.  He farmed near Hurley, SD in the 1980's and 1990's.  He also worked as a hunting guide and ranch hand in neighboring western states.  Eventually, he settled in Fall River County, living near Provo and Edgemont for several years.

Al was an avid outdoorsman. He hunted and fished.  He particularly enjoyed fishing for catfish in the Cheyenne River. He enjoyed working with horses. His best friend was Lenny, his border collie. Lenny was his best fishing buddy.

Al also took to cowboy poetry. He composed many such poems while holding a fishing rod or a set of reins in his hands. His poems and observations never failed to bring a smile.

While living in Brandon, he coached his sons' softball teams.  He was instrumental in forming the Brandon Valley Youth Sports Association (BVYSA) in the early 1970's.  Before BVYSA, children around Brandon who wanted to participate in organized sports had to play on Sioux Falls leagues.  This greatly limited the number of kids who could participate.  Al worked tirelessly with other local parents to form the BVYSA.  He organized local businesses and volunteers to build several softball diamonds around Brandon.  His efforts eventually resulted in nearly every Brandon area child having an opportunity to participate in some organized sport.

Al was preceded in death by his parents, sister Carol and his son Matthew.  He is survived by his son Al Jr, daughter Amber, and his sisters, Bernice and Elizabeth.