Lawrence Vincent Schaefer, In Memory

Friends,

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Lawrence Vincent Schaefer on September 29, 2022 at 91 years. A beloved member of the Montessori global community with a legacy that will be cherished and held close to heart by all who loved him. AMI/USA sends thoughts of compassion and comfort to all of Larry’s loved ones, family, friends, students and colleagues. We share the full announcement:

Dear Montessori Community,
Larry Schaefer passed away peacefully on September 29, 2022. He lived 91 years (was in his “92nd year” as he lovingly told his family), and words can’t fully describe his remarkable life and impact on others. Larry’s professional accomplishments as an educator are far too numerous to catalog, but include founding Lake Country School with his wife of 62 years, Pat Schaefer, which is and will remain a model and influential Montessori learning environment for children ages 2-14, in South Minneapolis. He was one of the visionaries and founders of Great River School, a Montessori Elementary, Junior High and High School in Saint Paul. He earned a PhD and MA in history from Fordham University, as well as BA and MA in education from Fairfield University. He served in the US Navy as an officer from 1955-1958. Larry became an influential global leader in Montessori education and devoted his professional life, which extended to the day he passed, to Montessori education and, in particular, the unique needs and potential of the adolescent. His reach and influence extends throughout the world, as he taught and lectured throughout North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, New Zealand, and Australia. His legacy in Montessori education will endure and live on in the hearts and minds of thousands of educators and students he taught, mentored, and inspired.

Visitation Thursday, October 20 from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at Roseville Memorial Chapel (2245 N. Hamline Ave, Roseville). Funeral Mass at 10 am on Friday, October 21 at the Basilica of St. Mary (88 N 17th St, Minneapolis), with additional visitation at 9 am.

The family asks that all attending take appropriate COVID precautions, wear a mask, be vaccinated, test as needed, and join via the livestream, https://mary.online.church if feeling unwell. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Lake Country Scholarship fund or the Lake Country Land School. Details at www.lakecountryschool.org.

Click here for the online obituary and donations details.