Maria Schaefer
November 10, 1938 ~ April 16, 2025
Resided in:
San Antonio, Texas
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Maria Schaefer, who left us on April 16, 2025, at the age of 86.
Born on November 10, 1938, Maria was a force of nature from the start. In her younger years, she was known for her fierce spirit on the soccer field, where she held her own with grit and determination. That same tenacity would follow her throughout her life—in her work, her passions, and the way she loved.
A gifted seamstress, Maria could take a simple piece of fabric and turn it into something extraordinary. Her hands stitched stories into every hem, every patch, and every handmade gift. Her garden was her sanctuary, where she found peace among the flowers and dirt under her fingernails. She never shied away from a day spent outdoors, whether it was pulling weeds, planting seeds, or simply soaking up the sun.
Maria was stubborn and opinionated, never afraid to speak her mind or stand her ground. You always knew where she stood, and there was a certain comfort in that. She loved deeply, though not always conventionally, and in her own way—quiet, steadfast, and often unspoken.
She leaves behind a legacy of strength, resilience, and honest love. Though she has moved on from this world, her presence will forever be felt in the gardens she tended, the clothes she crafted, and the memories we hold dear.
She is survived children Elke G. Allen, Rolf Schaefer, and Helmut Schaefer, as well as brother Josef “Seppi” Ruckert, who will carry her spirit with them always.
View current weather.
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle
Me and the cats miss you very much.
Helmut, that was a beautiful eulogy for your mama💕
dearest Auntie,
I only had the chance to meet you a few times, but I still remember those moments clearly. It’s been so long since you visited us here in Germany—yet the memory of you has stayed with us.
Just like it’s written in the tribute of this guestbook, that’s exactly how we experienced you, too: strong, full of character, and never afraid to say what was on your mind. You were someone who stood your ground, someone with a spark—a woman who knew what she wanted. In that way, you reminded me so much of your brother Seppi, our dad.
Seppi spoke of you often. He always knew when your birthday was, always kept you in his thoughts. And now, he misses you more than words can say. There was a deep connection between you two, even across the miles and years.
On behalf of Seppi and our entire family, we send you our love—wherever you are now.
May you rest in peace, wrapped in the memories and hearts of those who loved you.
You will not be forgotten.
Seppi (Josef), Ana, Markus and Oliver Rückert from Germany