William Frank Schumacher 71, of 111 Loomis Rd. Colchester Connecticut passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday July 23rd, 2020. He was born onto Howard and Marie Schumacher on May 26th, 1949 being the third child of nine children.
William grew up in Naugatuck, Connecticut where he attended high school and graduated class of 1968, soon thereafter he enlisted for the United States Navy. During his service he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal for his time served during the Vietnam War. William was a proud veteran and often talked about how he visited the Parthenon in Greece, witnessed the formula races in the streets of Barcelona, and the beautiful beaches of Cuba. When he returned to civilian life he worked at Pratt and Whitney as a machinist and setup engineer, but that was not his true passion which was for cooking.
While working in his Grandmothers restaurant when he was young and serving as a cook for many other restaurants thereafter, in 1986 he partnered to opened Diane’s Restaurant in Westchester, Connecticut which is now in its 34th year of business.
Of his many cooking jobs throughout his life, William was also a Food Director for Chestelm Health & Rehabilitation in Moodus, Connecticut. While there he ran the kitchen for food production and special events. Of his many talents, playing classical piano, having a knack for telling witty jokes and being a chef in the kitchen stood out the most. He loved working with people, especially the elderly and would often play piano and tell jokes for the residents of Chestelm after meals.
William was a proud member and Deacon for the Congregational Church in Westchester, Connecticut. There he was a member of the choir where he shared his love for God, passion for music and even taught to young members of the church. He would also participate in most of the church events and cooked for fundraisers.
William is survived by many including his eight siblings and spouses: Nancy and Siv Kropo, Howard Schumacher, Bobby and Lorraine Schumacher, Rodger and Mercedes Schumacher, George and Susan Schumacher, Michael and Carlynn Schumacher, Debbie and Paul Munns, Christopher and Patty Schumacher. He is also survived by his three sons William, Jarett and Nicholas, his grandson Maddox and many nieces and nephews.
“Billy” as friends and family would call him, will always be remembered best for his love and way with people, comedy, and his passion for cooking, he will sorely be missed.
There will be a private family service with no calling hours.
A memorial service will posted at a later date.
Did write but did not sign my name.
Mary Ellen Klinck