Corrine Linette (Caldwell) Schumacher, 70, of Lead passed away unexpectedly on April 11, 2026.

Corrine, or Corky, as her family and friends lovingly called her, was born to LaVerne and Sheila (Macdonald) Caldwell on December 14, 1955, in Deadwood SD. She was the second oldest of four children.

Corky met her husband of 46 years, Dennis Schumacher, over a chance meeting and an invite to grab a piece of pizza. They were married during a small ceremony on August 18,1979.

Corky worked for the Lead-Deadwood School District in food service for several years and retired from this position.

Many would agree that Corky was one of the best cooks/bakers they knew. From making her crowd-pleasing sweet potatoes for family gatherings, baking birthday cakes for her family, hand decorating 100’s of her famous Christmas cookies, or hosting a fish fry with Dennis’ catch of the day, she was always sharing her creations.

Corky had a love for all animals, big and small. She enjoyed watching the hummingbirds while sitting on her deck. She loved cats and dogs. Especially her last companion and best friend, Raven. A dog as stubborn as Corky.

Corky had a green thumb. She especially had a passion for summer flowers. Her clematis were her pride and joy and the prettiest flowers on the block. Dennis mentioned to Corky in passing once about possibly building a new house. Corky’s first question was, “Can I bring my clematis with?” Dennis reluctantly said no, so she bluntly told him she was not going to move.

Corky loved her family and friends with all her heart. She always asked how everyone was doing and genuinely cared about their well-being.

As far as aunts go, Corky was one of the best. Her nieces and nephews brought her immense joy.

Corky was a great listener. She liked to hear what was happening in everyone’s lives. She always gave good advice and always made you feel important.

She referred to most everyone as “Hon,” “Honey,” or “Darlin.”

Corky enjoyed camping with Dennis and riding the ATV. It might come as a surprise, but Corky loved to ride through mud puddles. The muddier the better.

She was strong willed and a bit of a firecracker. Sometimes her Scottish heritage came out. When she set her mind on something, there was no changing it.

Corky is survived by two sisters, Roxie (Bill) Feterl of Deadwood, SD, Lisa (Dan) Rappana of Sioux Falls, SD, brother Kirk Caldwell of Whitewood, mother-in-law, Judy Schumacher, her two brothers-in-law David (Mary) Schumacher of Deadwood, Donnie (Dawn) Schumacher of Georgia, and two sisters-in-law, Dani (Kevin) of Minnesota, Lizzie (Quinn) of Onida, SD, and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Corky is preceded in death by her father, LaVerne Cadwell, her mother, Shiela Keller, stepfather Ed Keller, her mother-in-law, Jackie Plienis, father-in-law, Dennis Schumacher Sr.,two sisters-in-law Pam Jones, Tricia Hatfield, her nephew Darrick Schumacher, and great-niece Kamryn Schumacher.

A celebration of life will take place on May 2nd at The Round House, 141 Glendale Drive, Lead SD, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.  In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.