Ronald Schauer

1942 - 2025

In Loving memory. Ron believed in living simply, loving generously, and always carrying change for a dollar surprise. He had a knack for brightening lives - often with just a coin, a kind word, and a smile that said, "Pay it forward."

Born on a North Dakota farm, Ron grew up with memories and stories from those vast rolling hills. He graduated from Napoleon High in 1959, earned his degree from Sioux Falls College in 1964, and later earned a master's in counseling from Lewis & Clark College - essentially training for a career that revolved around listening, caring, and helping others. Ron wore many hats - prison guard, probation officer, social worker, therapist, college educator - but the common thread was always compassion. He helped everyone from teens in trouble to adults navigating addiction and mental health challenges, all while maintaining a dry wit and a bookshelf full of wisdom.

In retirement, he traded case files for walking shoes and train tickets, and walked all the capitals across the U.S. and Canada, always preferring public transit (Amtrak got most of his business). Ron loved history, spirituality, and German beer... sometimes all at once. One of his proudest adventures was spending Christmas Eve in Bach's church in Leipzig. (No big deal, right?).

He also had a soft spot for Gregorian chants and early Christian music, regularly attending concerts or sneaking off to monasteries for some peace and quiet, and maybe a pastry or two. Ron volunteered at the Kelso Train Station, read Scripture at church services, and served meals at Family Kitchen with a humble heart. He wrote poetry, stories, and unforgettable Christmas letters with equal parts heart and humor. Most of all, he loved his wife, Pat - his partner in travel, faith, and 61½ years of life. He adored his kids, Wendy (Gary) and Scott (Leslie), and he beamed with pride at being "Grandpa Ron" to Paige. Preceded in death by parents Alfred Schauer and Ida Kessler Schauer Schuknecht, along with his brother Al. In addition to his beloved bride, children, and their families, he leaves behind sisters-in-law, Carol and Dee, a passel of nieces, a nephew, and many cousins.

Ron's life was a well-told story of kindness, curiosity, and quiet adventure. We will miss the coins, humor, and gentle way he reminded us to live simply and love fully.

A memorial service was held at Trinity Episcopal in Bend, Oregon. A celebration of life gathering will be held on October 4th at 1:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church in Longview, Washington, at 1428 22nd Avenue.

All are welcome. Refreshments will follow.