Bishop Edward J. Weisenburger | Diocese of Tucson website

The Catholic Foundation has announced the creation of a new memorial endowment following the passing of longtime parishioners Johnie and Joan Schiemer in Yuma, Arizona.

“My brother Jim and I wanted to create something that would honor our parents and their involvement at St. John Neumann Parish. The parish was a huge part of their life for over 20 years. They loved serving and being involved in the parish with their many close friends they made during their time in Yuma. We both wanted to honor our parents with a legacy that will help the youth of the parish in perpetuity,” said John Schiemer, their oldest son.

Johnie William Schiemer passed away on February 26, 2024, which coincided with his late wife Joan’s birthday. He was born on July 18, 1937, in Puyallup, Washington, and died at his assisted living home in Yuma. He is remembered as a kindhearted individual who always had a smile on his face.

Joan Elaine Schiemer passed away on May 1, 2023, after battling cancer for nine years. Born on February 26, 1939, in Tacoma, Washington, she also passed away at their home in Yuma. She was known for her dedication to volunteering at the parish.

Johnie graduated from Bethel High School in Graham, Washington, in 1956 before joining the Navy for two years. After his military service, he became an airframe and engine mechanic but eventually pursued a long career as a boilermaker in industrial construction until retiring at age 62.

Joan graduated from Lincoln High School in Tacoma in 1957 and trained as an x-ray technician at St. Joseph Hospital under the sisters’ guidance before interning at Madigan Army Hospital at Fort Lewis. She spent over 25 years working for orthopedic surgeons in Lakewood.

The couple met on a blind date arranged by Joan’s friends and married on June 25th, 1960. They raised their family near Tacoma before retiring to Yuma as winter residents while spending summers traveling.

Both were active members of St. John Neumann Catholic Church; Johnie volunteered extensively with bingo events and the Knights of Columbus while also collecting aluminum pull-tabs for Ronald McDonald House fundraising efforts—an initiative recognized by Columbia Magazine. Joan participated actively through St. Ann’s Guild and various church activities including preparing baskets for fundraisers.

One notable tradition was Johnie’s role handing out donuts and coffee after Mass—a practice inspired by his mother’s similar activity back home—which helped raise funds for youth programs within the parish.

In memory of their contributions to the church community, the Schiemer Family has established the Johnie and Joan Schiemer Memorial Endowment through the Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of Tucson to support youth activities annually at St. John Neumann Parish.

For families interested in establishing an endowment or leaving part of their estate to any Catholic entity within the Diocese, contact Elizabeth Bollinger at (520) 955-2109 or [email protected].