Marcia Ann Schaffer

Marcia Ann Schaffer Marcia Ann Schaffer of Long Beach, CA passed away on August 11, 2010 after a battle with cancer. Marcia was born in Omaha, Nebraska in 1932, the second daughter of Genevieve and William August Francis. Arriving in Los Angeles at the age of 10, Marcia spent her teen years in Lynwood, where she met her future husband, Steve, at a church social. Their first date included Marcia accidentally locking herself in the drive-in bathroom, and Steve coming to her rescue with a lock pick. Marriage was clearly in the cards. Wed in 1951, Marcia went to work at Steel Services, the Schaffer family business, serving as company treasurer until her death. Marcia spent a great deal of time volunteering, first with Hospice of Long Beach and, since 1987, with the St. Mary's Hospital Guild, where she served in various capacities including guild president. She took great pleasure in working at both the Guild's Thrift Store and Gift Shop, bringing her characteristic panache and great taste to her role as gift shop buyer. As residents of Naples Island, Marcia and Steve were members of the Long Beach Yacht Club where their Chris Craft Constellation Summer Song has been berthed for 30 years. Marcia lovingly restored the interior of the classic 57' wooden yacht to a pristine condition and greatly enjoyed entertaining dockside and spending weekends in Catalina. On Summer Song, she was known by international judges, dignitaries and guests as a warm and gracious hostess for sailing regattas including LBYC's Congressional Cup from 1981-2010, the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, and the World Match Racing Championships. Marcia is survived by her husband of 58 years, Steve; daughter, Monica; sister, Rita Tribble; eight adoring nieces and nephews, and one irascible beagle. A cocktail reception will be held in Marcia's honor at the Long Beach Yacht Club, 6201 Appian Way, Long Beach, on Tuesday, September 28, 2010 from 5pm-8pm. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in her name be made to the St. Mary's Hospital Guild.