Lisa Andersson

CORINTH - Lisa (Schelmbauer) Andersson, a vibrant, passionate soul who embraced life with boundless energy and love, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by her cherished family on Friday, November 15, 2024. Lisa’s life was a testament to her adventurous spirit, kind heart, and unwavering determination. Even in the face of her illness, she continued to inspire those around her with her strength, grace, and optimism.

Lisa had a knack for bringing joy to every moment. She loved Monty Python and the Holy Grail and would enthusiastically role-play accents with her granddaughter, Blaire. Her quirky charm extended to her backyard, where she enjoyed the serenity of a tipi, a symbol of her whimsical and creative nature. A connoisseur of sweets, Lisa’s love for candy and Boston crème donuts was legendary, and her popcorn made on the stovetop remains a family favorite.

As a mother, Lisa had an unmatched gift for soothing stomach aches and broken bones, always balancing her high expectations with warm hugs and a listening ear. Her traditions—like making Jack’s wax, hiding a pickle in the Christmas tree for an early gift, or wearing inside-out-and-backward underwear with a spoon under the pillow for snow days—created cherished memories that her family will carry forever.

Lisa’s love for animals was a defining part of her life. Whether taking her beloved dogs, Igor and Bentley, out on the lake in a paddle boat or volunteering at Peaceful Acres Horses, Lisa’s bond with animals was profound. Her neighbors fondly recall the joy she brought to the community as she shared her love for her four-legged friends. Later in life, Lisa also volunteered with Y-Knot at Camp Chingachgook, helping disabled adults experience the joy and freedom of sailing.

Lisa was a nurturer at her core. Her dedication to medicine and wellness defined much of her life’s work, as did her commitment to giving back to her community. From volunteering to teach disabled youth how to ski at Double H Ranch to dressing as a UNICEF donation box for Halloween, Lisa never hesitated to lend a helping hand. She believed deeply in the Dr. Seuss quote: “Be who you are, and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.” This philosophy guided her interactions and her efforts to make the world a better place.

Even as she battled her illness, Lisa prioritized caring for her parents, John and Patricia. She moved closer to them to ensure they received the love and support they needed, embodying her selfless spirit. Despite her own health challenges, she was a constant source of strength, comfort, and care for them, making an indelible mark on their lives.

Lisa’s greatest joy was her family. She loved kayaking on Hunt Lake, walking through the woods, and building fires at camp, often with her husband, Spencer, by her side. Seeing her children, Amanda and Brian, grow into strong, competent adults and spending time with her granddaughter, Blaire, brought her immense pride and happiness. Her fondest memories included dog sledding in Sweden and being the first person on the dance floor at Amanda’s wedding—a perfect snapshot of her unyielding zest for life.

Lisa’s cancer journey revealed her extraordinary resilience. Even as she faced the challenges of treatment, she continued to embrace life with the same adventurous spirit, kindness, and humor that defined her. She found solace in the little things—kayaking, walking through the woods, and the love of her family. Her fight was not just against her illness but also for the time to create more memories with the people she loved most.

She believed in guardian angels, often seeing them in the form of red-tailed hawks, a reflection of her spiritual connection to the world around her.

In lieu of flowers, Lisa’s family asks that donations be made to organizations that held deep meaning for her and reflect her passions:

PanCAN (Pancreatic Cancer Action Network).org/?form=FUNGMWGYGJJ" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN (Pancreatic Cancer Action Network)), supporting critical research and resources for those affected by pancreatic cancer.The Double H Ranch (Double H Ranch), where Lisa dedicated time to helping children with disabilities experience the joy of skiing.The Native Wellness Institute (Native Wellness Institute), an organization focused on wellness and healing through Native traditions and teachings.

A Celebration of a Life Well-Lived will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025 from 1-5 p.m. at Windy Acres Farm, 6432 Mariaville Road, Schenectady, NY 12306.

Lisa is survived by her loving husband, Spencer; her children, Amanda and Brian; her stepchildren, Oscar, Filip, and Simon; her beloved granddaughter, Blaire; her parents, John and Patricia; and her brother, JL. She also leaves behind countless friends and neighbors who were inspired by her warmth, kindness, and indomitable spirit.

Lisa leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and a life well-lived. She will be remembered as a passionate, caring, and fiercely loving individual who always put others first and left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

May her memory continue to inspire those she touched, and may her spirit dance forever in the hearts of those who loved her.

To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.