Constance "Connie" Claire Schaefer

Constance Claire Schaefer (Fischer), affectionately known as “Connie” - a wonderful, beautiful mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and friend - passed away while under hospice care at Palos Community Hospital on Tuesday, October 26th, 2021.

Connie was born May 6th, 1930 to Erna Fischer (Peter) at 5727 South Laflin Street in Chicago. Her father, William Fischer died at the age of 32, a few months before Connie was born. Her older brothers, Bill and Allen however, were always by her side. As well, family, friends, Peace Memorial Church and faith provided great strength and support throughout her life.  

Connie was a proud graduate of Lindblom High School. She was a very active member in many clubs and church. After graduation, Connie attended secretarial school and enjoyed a career working for the Otis Elevator Company in downtown Chicago. She married Charles “Chuck” Henry Schaefer on January 14th, 1956. Connie and Chuck were the proud parent of three children, Charles Robert, Marlene Claire and Lynette Joy. Connie was a devoted mother and volunteer in her community. She held various positions including President in the Christ Hospital Auxiliary and served in that organization for over 40 years. She also held leadership positons in the PTA (Parent Teacher Association) and was a Girl Scout Brownie leader. Connie sang in the Peace Memorial Choir and was an active member of the Beverly Ski Club. She and her husband Charles travelled frequently with their children and enjoyed many camping and skiing trips over the years. Her children cherish precious memories of their parents singing in the station wagon during long road trips. Connie sadly lost her husband, Chuck while celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary. They were on a ski trip in Aspen when he died February 25th, 1981 of a sudden heart attack. Connie was a resilient woman and had many loving friends and family that along with her faith, gave her strength. She moved into a townhome in Hinsdale a number of years later, and continued to enjoy travelling with friends and family. She had a wonderful sense of humor, loved to decorate for the holidays and host parties. In the spring of 2012, Connie moved into Peace Village in Palos Park, where she enjoyed activities with many of her lifelong friends.  

Connie was a very proud and loving Nonnie to eight beautiful grandchildren-Grayson Thacker, Kelcey Thacker, Camden Thacker, Emily Schaefer, Abbey Schaefer, Remington Reid, Brittany Reid and Allison Schaefer.  She was also a devoted aunt to William Fischer, Allen Fischer, Robert Fischer and Janice White (Fischer), and leaves behind a treasured sister-in-law, Shirl Fischer. In addition to her husband, Connie was preceded in death by her parents Erna and William Fischer, brother William Fischer, brother Allen Fischer and sister-in-law Doris Fischer.  

Connie will be dearly missed by her family and friends. Her signature laugh, grace, infectious smile, beauty and spirit will live on though through the many photos we are blessed to have and the telling of stories at family gatherings. We are so thankful to have had Connie in our lives and comforted knowing that she is now at peace in heaven.

Family and friends are cordially invited to Peace Memorial Church 10300 131st street, Palos Park, IL for visitation Friday, October 29th, 2021 from 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM and Saturday, October 30th, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM.  A funeral service is planned at Peace Memorial Church on Saturday, October 30th at 11:00 AM followed by interment at Chapel Hill Gardens South cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Peace Memorial Church, Peace Village or American Heart Association would be appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Debbie Zefran-Jerry funeral director. 630-230-8399.Visit newtraditionfunerals.com 

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