Lorraine J. Bear

1923 - 2023

Lorraine J. Mitchell Schumaker Bear, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend to many, died peacefully at the age of 100 on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at her home in Michigan City, Indiana, with loving family and friends nearby.

Lorraine was born on June 27, 1923, to Charles and Josephine Mitchell, who lived in a small home near the shore of Lake Michigan, only a few hundred yards away from the lakefront condominium where she recently died. She grew up with two sisters, Jeanette and Marilyn, both deceased; and one brother, Harold Mitchell, who passed away in infancy. 

Lorraine attended Isaac C. Elston High School in Michigan City, where she acquired secretarial and book keeping skills, which she utilized throughout her working years. She was most proud of the administrative work she did as a member of the U.S. Navy during World War II.

After the war, Lorraine returned to Michigan City, and married Kenneth F. Schumaker, in 1946. They had five children, Timothy Schumaker (deceased), Daniel Schumaker, Aaron Schumaker, Anne Everett and Kathleen Hutchinson. She was the beloved stepmother to Kenneth's daughter, Susan Paul, from his previous marriage.

Kenneth died unexpectedly in 1966, and Lorraine married Robert M. Bear in 1969. She instantly became the beloved stepmother to Robert's daughter, Carol Hudson, and his son, James Bear, from his previous marriage. In total, Lorraine had 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Before retirement, Lorraine worked many years as office manager for the architectural firm of Ken Fryar Associates in Michigan City. After retirement, she volunteered as a guide at the Old Lighthouse Museum in Michigan City. She also served on the board of her condominium association for several years, and they recently created a permanent memorial in her honor.

Lorraine loved Michigan City, and Lake Michigan, and was deeply loved by family and friends. Her smile could light up a room! She will be missed by everyone who knew her.

Visitors are invited to meet with the family on Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2023, from 9 a.m. until the service begins at 11 a.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church, 600 Franklin Street, Michigan City, Indiana, 46360. The service will be officiated by Father Rob Rhodes.

Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in Michigan City.

Memorial contributions may be made in Lorraine's name to:

Shriners Children's Hospital, Lovetotherescue.org

La Porte County Meals on Wheels, 301 E. 8th Street, Michigan City, IN, 46360

The Old Lighthouse Museum, 100 Heisman Harbor, Michigan City, IN, 46360

To sign the online guestbook, or to leave condolences, please visit www.carlislefh.com, or call 219-874-4214