Catherine Schur Schoppa passed away on January 13, 2022 at the age of 102. She was born on December 13, 1919 in Vernon, Texas. Her parents were Ernest B. and Minnie Kischnick Schur.
Catherine married Wilbert Karl Schoppa on July 27, 1941. When Wilbert returned home after serving his country in the US Navy, they moved to Plainview, Texas. They were then blessed with their daughter Brenda. They also farmed land near Hart, Perryton, and Vernon, Texas.
Catherine was generous with her time in support of charitable activities. She was a dedicated member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Plainview since 1946. She served in many capacities throughout her years, being especially involved in the Sunday School and Vacation Bible School programs from teacher to Superintendent. Using her singing and musical talents, she directed many of the children’s Christmas Programs and was a member of the choir. Catherine was a Charter Member of the Texas Lutheran Women’s Missionary League since 1941. She was also an active member of the local chapter in every capacity. She also worked with the local PTA, Meals on Wheels and the Plainview Community Concerts. One of her passions was cooking and baking for those in need. Her Pecan Pie became famous in Texas, Missouri, and Hong Kong.
Catherine’s husband passed away in May, 1998. In 2006 she moved to McKinney, Texas to live with her family, Brenda and Jay Lowry. She started expanding her traveling with Brenda and Jay. She saw Broadway plays in New York, traveled across Florida, went on multiple cruises and finally to China at 90 years of age. She was able to visit her granddaughter Shannon and husband Bill in Hong Kong. She toured Beijing, exploring the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China. She often reminisced on “what a remarkable trip” it was. Catherine loved spending her last years in McKinney with her beloved family. She made lasting memories with them. She always claimed that all her grandchildren “Kept her young.”
Catherine is survived by her daughter, Brenda and husband, Jay Lowry; two granddaughters, Heather and husband, Patrick, Shannon and husband, Bill. She has three greatgrandchildren: Sabine, Xabi, and Ethan. All reside in McKinney, Texas. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. She will be greatly missed by all.
She will be laid to rest in a private ceremony, officiated by her nephew Reverend Steven Schur, at Plainview Memorial Cemetery on January 22. Arrangements are being handled by Kornerstone Funeral Home of Plainview and Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home of Allen, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorials be sent to UPBRING, a Lutheran services organization that addresses the needs of children in Texas. You may contact them at UPBRING.ORG or:
Foster in Texas and Adoption
275 West Campbell Road Suite 600
Richardson, TX 75080