June 29
June 29
Thinking of Shelly and the wonderful woman, wife, mother and grandmother that she was. As always , Karen and I are thinking of you, Michael, and knowing how much you must miss your wonderful wife. God bless. Steve and Karen
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November 29, 2023
November 29, 2023
Ethan was born on this day 53 years ago.
The Day Ethan was Born
We knew this could be difficult because it was a 60 mile drive to the hospital where Shelly would deliver her second baby. In 1970 we were living on the Papago Indian Reservation in the southern Arizona desert. Since the Indian hospital was for the exclusive use of the Indian population we were discouraged from using any of its scarce resources, so even though I had delivered dozens of babies at the Indian hospital we had to drive for 90 minutes to get to Tucson. My recollection is that Shelly’s water broke in the afternoon of Sunday, November 29, 1970. My mother Rose was visiting from Florida to look after David, who was not quite two years old. Shelly sat in the front seat while I drove on the nearly deserted desert road. Her contraction intervals shortened to less than a minute as we approached Tucson. All the while I knew that in the unlikely event we did not make it in time, I could pull over to deliver the baby. We brought rudimentary supplies like a clean sheet, sterile scissors, and clean towels. Shelly was relaxed and confident because she had absolute trust in me. All the while I was reviewing in my head what I would do if our second child was born before we made it to the hospital.
The contractions were about a minute apart when we got to Tucson. Our OBGYN had been alerted, so he met us in the admitting department. Shelly was whisked to a hospital room where she could be examined, a few minutes later the OBGYN came to talk to me, man to man, doctor to doctor. He asked if I wanted Shelly to have twilight sleep sedation. This would make the delivery painless, but she would lose all memory of the event. Remember this was 1970. It did not occur to me or the OBGYN to ask Shelly about this. Without hesitation, I answered “Yes” since I didn’t want my beloved to be in pain. Later when Shelly learned about this decision she was angry over not being consulted. Again, remember this was 1970, so her reaction surprised me until I realized that I had stolen the precious, intimate experience of a natural childbirth.
Ethan was born about half an hour after my misbegotten decision, on a warm clear sunny desert day. His Apgar score was a perfect ten. I saw him for the first time through the glass of the nursery, swaddled in a blanket sleeping peacefully in his bassinet. My heart swelled with pride. We had another healthy son and Shelly came through like a trooper. He had a future as big and bright as the desert sky.
There is a touching picture in the gallery of tiny Ethan in the arms of his beautiful, serene young mother as she lay in bed recovering. It is one of my all-time favorites because he is looking up at her with wonder and she is lovingly kissing his little forehead. He had a world of support, love, and opportunity.
I must have driven back to the reservation sometime Sunday night. Shelly came home on Tuesday. My mother and little David were there to greet Shelly and Ethan with a welcome sign and flowers. It was a perfect beginning, with a healthy pink infant and a strong stoic mother. This was exactly what we expected at that time. We had a storybook life where only good things happened. Shelly forgave me and we walked down the path of the future with smiles and unbounded optimism, not willing to believe that the uncertain journey we call life could ever bring us harm.
The Day Ethan was Born
We knew this could be difficult because it was a 60 mile drive to the hospital where Shelly would deliver her second baby. In 1970 we were living on the Papago Indian Reservation in the southern Arizona desert. Since the Indian hospital was for the exclusive use of the Indian population we were discouraged from using any of its scarce resources, so even though I had delivered dozens of babies at the Indian hospital we had to drive for 90 minutes to get to Tucson. My recollection is that Shelly’s water broke in the afternoon of Sunday, November 29, 1970. My mother Rose was visiting from Florida to look after David, who was not quite two years old. Shelly sat in the front seat while I drove on the nearly deserted desert road. Her contraction intervals shortened to less than a minute as we approached Tucson. All the while I knew that in the unlikely event we did not make it in time, I could pull over to deliver the baby. We brought rudimentary supplies like a clean sheet, sterile scissors, and clean towels. Shelly was relaxed and confident because she had absolute trust in me. All the while I was reviewing in my head what I would do if our second child was born before we made it to the hospital.
The contractions were about a minute apart when we got to Tucson. Our OBGYN had been alerted, so he met us in the admitting department. Shelly was whisked to a hospital room where she could be examined, a few minutes later the OBGYN came to talk to me, man to man, doctor to doctor. He asked if I wanted Shelly to have twilight sleep sedation. This would make the delivery painless, but she would lose all memory of the event. Remember this was 1970. It did not occur to me or the OBGYN to ask Shelly about this. Without hesitation, I answered “Yes” since I didn’t want my beloved to be in pain. Later when Shelly learned about this decision she was angry over not being consulted. Again, remember this was 1970, so her reaction surprised me until I realized that I had stolen the precious, intimate experience of a natural childbirth.
Ethan was born about half an hour after my misbegotten decision, on a warm clear sunny desert day. His Apgar score was a perfect ten. I saw him for the first time through the glass of the nursery, swaddled in a blanket sleeping peacefully in his bassinet. My heart swelled with pride. We had another healthy son and Shelly came through like a trooper. He had a future as big and bright as the desert sky.
There is a touching picture in the gallery of tiny Ethan in the arms of his beautiful, serene young mother as she lay in bed recovering. It is one of my all-time favorites because he is looking up at her with wonder and she is lovingly kissing his little forehead. He had a world of support, love, and opportunity.
I must have driven back to the reservation sometime Sunday night. Shelly came home on Tuesday. My mother and little David were there to greet Shelly and Ethan with a welcome sign and flowers. It was a perfect beginning, with a healthy pink infant and a strong stoic mother. This was exactly what we expected at that time. We had a storybook life where only good things happened. Shelly forgave me and we walked down the path of the future with smiles and unbounded optimism, not willing to believe that the uncertain journey we call life could ever bring us harm.
November 6, 2023
November 6, 2023
Hi Grandma!
I hope you're doing great. I can't believe I'm already in my senior year of college and Holden's up here with me just beginning as a freshman. This year will be one of reflection, closure, and new beginnings as I begin the medical school application process and connect with friends old and new. I'm really excited and lucky to have a few trips lined up - the first of which is my Vancouver Thanksgiving trip with my 'Iolani friends. It's thanks to you that I can have experiences like these during my youth that will stick with me forever and serve as very welcome breaks in what can be a rough academic year. It's also been so good to see grandpa more as he's mellowed out and is making the most of life recently. Thinking of you always and miss you so much.
LUFE LUFA,
Max
I hope you're doing great. I can't believe I'm already in my senior year of college and Holden's up here with me just beginning as a freshman. This year will be one of reflection, closure, and new beginnings as I begin the medical school application process and connect with friends old and new. I'm really excited and lucky to have a few trips lined up - the first of which is my Vancouver Thanksgiving trip with my 'Iolani friends. It's thanks to you that I can have experiences like these during my youth that will stick with me forever and serve as very welcome breaks in what can be a rough academic year. It's also been so good to see grandpa more as he's mellowed out and is making the most of life recently. Thinking of you always and miss you so much.
LUFE LUFA,
Max
August 22, 2023
August 22, 2023
Shelly’s immediate universe may have dimmed, but her brightest stars are burning bright with promising futures. Her love lives on with her lasting focus, effort and time spent with her precious husband, beloved family (children and grandchildren) and friends. May her loving legacy live on with Divine grace and Joy. Warmest Aloha, Duke and Deborah Wagner
June 30, 2023
June 30, 2023
Beautiful Shelly,
Four years have passed since your physical ordeal began. The beautiful memories and your amazing internal and external beauty will stay in our hearts forever. Your angelic smile is a memory that always brings a smile to my face.
Thank you for bringing such an amazing and beautiful human to this world, David. He is a pure reflection of you and your equally amazing husband Michael.
I know that you send a beautiful shower of love from up above for all of us.
Lufe lufa
Felipe ⭐
Four years have passed since your physical ordeal began. The beautiful memories and your amazing internal and external beauty will stay in our hearts forever. Your angelic smile is a memory that always brings a smile to my face.
Thank you for bringing such an amazing and beautiful human to this world, David. He is a pure reflection of you and your equally amazing husband Michael.
I know that you send a beautiful shower of love from up above for all of us.
Lufe lufa
Felipe ⭐
June 28, 2023
June 28, 2023
Much Love.. I know you are watching over your loved ones.. much love , Ed and Sherry
June 28, 2023
June 28, 2023
Dear Mom,
It's been for years since the start of the ordeal that took you from us too soon. We still feel the sting of your absence but cherish all of the wonderful memories and remain filled with gratitude for the countless gifts you gave us that continue to bear fruit. You would be over the moon with pride to see how the grandkids are doing. All four of them are now smart, caring, exceptional young adults and you played a big role in making them who they are. Love you forever, like you for always.
Dave
It's been for years since the start of the ordeal that took you from us too soon. We still feel the sting of your absence but cherish all of the wonderful memories and remain filled with gratitude for the countless gifts you gave us that continue to bear fruit. You would be over the moon with pride to see how the grandkids are doing. All four of them are now smart, caring, exceptional young adults and you played a big role in making them who they are. Love you forever, like you for always.
Dave
June 28, 2023
June 28, 2023
Today is 6/28/23, exactly 4 years since Shelly's aorta ruptured...hard to believe. It was on a Friday morning that the thunderbolt hit. She was shopping for a challah to use Friday evening in the traditional Sabbath welcoming tradition. That saved her life. Had she been at home alone she would have died on 6/28/19, one day before her 75th birthday. LUFA LUFE Mike
December 2, 2022
December 2, 2022
Eliel and I send our love to you and your family on this day. You are all in our hearts. Linda & Eliel
December 2, 2022
December 2, 2022
Michael and Family, We are thinking of you all today and sending you our love while remembering all the wonderful times with Shelly. xoxox David & Jacqueline
November 6, 2022
November 6, 2022
Our beautiful Shelly. A beautiful human that left so much beauty behind for all of us to be part of and enjoy. Her wisdom, empathy, charisma, internal and external beauty will always prevail in our hearts. Now she is a beautiful sparkling star in that magical and celestial universe. She is guiding us with her eternal beautiful light from up above.
Lufe lufa ⭐
Felipe
Lufe lufa ⭐
Felipe
November 5, 2022
November 5, 2022
Such a beautiful and heart-warming and heart wrenching tribute. Sensational and sensitive, like the wonderful Shelley. xoxo Jacqueline
October 27, 2022
October 27, 2022
“Shelly Says”
Live below your means.
Pay off the credit cards every month.
Understand the miracle of compounding.
Learn the rule of 72s.
A penny saved is more than a penny earned.
Start a retirement account as soon as possible.
These are the 6 financial literacy concepts that Shelly wants all youngsters to know.
Live below your means.
Pay off the credit cards every month.
Understand the miracle of compounding.
Learn the rule of 72s.
A penny saved is more than a penny earned.
Start a retirement account as soon as possible.
These are the 6 financial literacy concepts that Shelly wants all youngsters to know.
May 8, 2022
May 8, 2022
Dear Mom,
I'm missing you terribly on this Mother's Day and every day. You live on always in our hearts and through a lifetime of precious memories.
Love,
Dave
I'm missing you terribly on this Mother's Day and every day. You live on always in our hearts and through a lifetime of precious memories.
Love,
Dave
May 8, 2022
May 8, 2022
Ashes at Mt. Everest
I was at Everest Base Camp on 4/15/22 and 4/16/22. Some of Shelly’s ashes had been with me on my trek right from the beginning in a special belt that I wear. My goal was to ask one of the Everest climbers to spread them at the summit, but when I checked with Ang Jangbu the senior guide, he told me it was a bad idea. Then he let me know that the small altar set up at the International Mountain Guieds (IMG) camp, called a Pooja, is considered higher than Everest to the Buddhists. This stone Pooja was decorated with prayer flags and offerings. Most interestingly, the offerings were bottles of soft drinks and a can of beer. Eleven days before, back in Namche Bazar, I was advised to buy a can of San Miguel beer because as the trek progresses, the cost of everything escalates. I think a can of beer at EBC is $9.00 US. After Namche I completely lost interest in alcohol, so every time I packed and unpacked that can I considered giving it away, but it stayed in my duffel. Now I placed it as an offering on the IMG Pooja, then I closed my eyes and opened the packet of ashes.
For more on Everest Base Camp look at the "LIFE" section of this website and scroll down.
I was at Everest Base Camp on 4/15/22 and 4/16/22. Some of Shelly’s ashes had been with me on my trek right from the beginning in a special belt that I wear. My goal was to ask one of the Everest climbers to spread them at the summit, but when I checked with Ang Jangbu the senior guide, he told me it was a bad idea. Then he let me know that the small altar set up at the International Mountain Guieds (IMG) camp, called a Pooja, is considered higher than Everest to the Buddhists. This stone Pooja was decorated with prayer flags and offerings. Most interestingly, the offerings were bottles of soft drinks and a can of beer. Eleven days before, back in Namche Bazar, I was advised to buy a can of San Miguel beer because as the trek progresses, the cost of everything escalates. I think a can of beer at EBC is $9.00 US. After Namche I completely lost interest in alcohol, so every time I packed and unpacked that can I considered giving it away, but it stayed in my duffel. Now I placed it as an offering on the IMG Pooja, then I closed my eyes and opened the packet of ashes.
For more on Everest Base Camp look at the "LIFE" section of this website and scroll down.
March 18, 2022
March 18, 2022
Our beautiful Shelly⭐
Time passes and your presence in our hearts and minds keeps growing. Your tree will grow and will bring so much beauty to our world just like you did in many different ways. The branches will move and dance with the wind just like you did, the sound of the leaf will be a reminder of your beautiful voice and laughter, and the oxygen that your tree will provide will be the nourishment that you always have to your loved ones and everyone around you.
THANK YOU FOREVER!⭐
Time passes and your presence in our hearts and minds keeps growing. Your tree will grow and will bring so much beauty to our world just like you did in many different ways. The branches will move and dance with the wind just like you did, the sound of the leaf will be a reminder of your beautiful voice and laughter, and the oxygen that your tree will provide will be the nourishment that you always have to your loved ones and everyone around you.
THANK YOU FOREVER!⭐
March 17, 2022
March 17, 2022
I say a prayer for Shelly every day..
March 16, 2022
March 16, 2022
Tree Davis Memorial Grove
Shelly got her law degree from King Hall at UC Davis and she lived in this college town for seven years, so it was fitting that we planted a tree for her in the Tree Davis Memorial Grove. It is a Desert Willow that will grow to 20 feet and have beautiful lavender and dark purple flowers. Desert reminds us that she lived in the Arizona desert for two years. There is a picture of the sapling in the gallery.
04-23-23 The tree is now a year old. Although still small, it stands proud with its new green leaves. For easy identification, I added a picture of Shelly to the stand next to the tree.
Shelly got her law degree from King Hall at UC Davis and she lived in this college town for seven years, so it was fitting that we planted a tree for her in the Tree Davis Memorial Grove. It is a Desert Willow that will grow to 20 feet and have beautiful lavender and dark purple flowers. Desert reminds us that she lived in the Arizona desert for two years. There is a picture of the sapling in the gallery.
04-23-23 The tree is now a year old. Although still small, it stands proud with its new green leaves. For easy identification, I added a picture of Shelly to the stand next to the tree.
December 4, 2021
December 4, 2021
Jim and I think of Shelly often and will for a very long time. Probably as long as our memories last. Shelly was a thinker and a doer. She always gave our little group of friends something worthwhile to think about. And then we would have some laughs together. Missing you Shelly, Pat and Jim Wells
December 2, 2021
December 2, 2021
A year has passed since our beautiful Shelly departed to paradise. 100 years could pass and still she will be remembered and honored for all of the greatness that she gave and left behind with her beautiful legacy. Her grandchildren will share with their own children the stories and magnificent moments spend with Shelly and the internal and external beauty that made her unique. I will continue treasuring the biggest gift she gave me, her son David. And I will always remember her last words to me when she held my hand for the very last time. They are PRICELESS and will stay with me forever.
Thank you Shelly for sending the light from up above to continue guiding us in this beautiful journey we call life.
Lufe lufa⭐⭐
Thank you Shelly for sending the light from up above to continue guiding us in this beautiful journey we call life.
Lufe lufa⭐⭐
December 2, 2021
December 2, 2021
On this first anniversary of my Mom's passing, I hope everyone will join me in remembering what a wonderful woman she was. She cared deeply not only about those closest to her but for her community, her country and the larger world around her. Her legacy of kindness, giving and love will never be forgotten.
December 2, 2021
December 2, 2021
I'm so sorry for the great loss you've suffered.
July 1, 2021
July 1, 2021
June 29 would have been my mom's 77th birthday, the first one since she left us last December. Her world turned upside down when her aorta ruptured with no warning on the day before her birthday two years ago.
Our family is grateful that she enjoyed 75 years of excellent health. We remember all of the love she gave in so many ways. From her volunteer work for underprivileged students to the "Grandma Letters" she sent to her beloved grandchildren every week without fail.
And she's continuing to give after her passing. Her motorized wheelchair was donated to a young man who lost the use of his legs in an accident, and a financial literacy program for kids is being created in her name at Congregation B'nai Israel.
Friends and family have honored her memory with a plaque at the beautiful State Capitol Rose Garden and on a bench at UC Davis, where she attended law school. Further remembrances are online in my dad's blog at https://bit.ly/shelly-schermer and on her memorial website at www.shellyschermer.com.
Thanks to everyone who has supported my dad and our family during this difficult transition and all the best to all of you.
Dave
Our family is grateful that she enjoyed 75 years of excellent health. We remember all of the love she gave in so many ways. From her volunteer work for underprivileged students to the "Grandma Letters" she sent to her beloved grandchildren every week without fail.
And she's continuing to give after her passing. Her motorized wheelchair was donated to a young man who lost the use of his legs in an accident, and a financial literacy program for kids is being created in her name at Congregation B'nai Israel.
Friends and family have honored her memory with a plaque at the beautiful State Capitol Rose Garden and on a bench at UC Davis, where she attended law school. Further remembrances are online in my dad's blog at https://bit.ly/shelly-schermer and on her memorial website at www.shellyschermer.com.
Thanks to everyone who has supported my dad and our family during this difficult transition and all the best to all of you.
Dave
June 30, 2021
June 30, 2021
Wishing we were all celebrating your birthday together , Shelley. You have meant so much to so many lives that you have touched. I really enjoy all the pictures of you with family and friends and seeing how much joy you all shared.
June 29, 2021
June 29, 2021
Today is a day when a beautiful baby girl was born 77 years ago. This beautiful little girl grew up to become a very successful woman in so many ways, but the most important was all of the love, care, enthusiasm, strength, values and knowledge that she shared with everyone she crossed paths with. In my case, I am so thankful for the beautiful life that she brought into this world...her so wonderful son Dave. He is a testament to the great job Shelly did as a mother.
Today in our hearts and minds we are celebrating Shelly's beautiful memory, knowing that she is resting comfortably in paradise.
Lufe lufa
Felipe
Today in our hearts and minds we are celebrating Shelly's beautiful memory, knowing that she is resting comfortably in paradise.
Lufe lufa
Felipe
May 29, 2021
May 29, 2021
My cousins reached out to our local congregation to fund a program in Shelly's name on the topic of financial literacy. This will be part of the religious school curriculum. Financial literacy was very important to Shelly because she knew it was lacking in the basic education of children. My compliments to the person or persons who thought of this very appropriate tribute and my thanks to all those who contributed.
I was informed of this in a letter from Congregation B'nai Israel. A photo of the letter is in the picture gallery.
I was informed of this in a letter from Congregation B'nai Israel. A photo of the letter is in the picture gallery.
March 9, 2021
March 9, 2021
I knew Shelly both as a fellow congregant at B'nai Israel and as one of my favorite constituents (Sacramento City Council District 3). I always enjoyed her warm smile and her intelligent observations and suggestions.
February 26, 2021
February 26, 2021
Shelly has been gone for almost three months, but her good deeds live on. Last Tuesday, 2-23-21, she was able to help a 39 year old father of two pretty little girls by giving him her power wheel chair. This man recently suffered a spinal cord injury. His wife drove four hours to pick up the chair.
A lift was required to get the heavy chair into her pickup. The good people at Big O Tires came to the rescue. Now, in a way, Shelly has helped him take a step towards the challenging goal of independence. See pictures in the "GALLERY."
A lift was required to get the heavy chair into her pickup. The good people at Big O Tires came to the rescue. Now, in a way, Shelly has helped him take a step towards the challenging goal of independence. See pictures in the "GALLERY."
January 27, 2021
January 27, 2021
It's bittersweet to think about Shelly, but more sweet than any other feeling. I can see her smile in my mind's eye as if I had been with her yesterday. I am so happy that we got to experience slices of life together - in Costa Rica, Sacramento, and Chicago. She continues to inspire and lead. Much love to all, and may we keep building new memories together and keep her with us as we go forth.
January 20, 2021
January 20, 2021
I think of your increadble smile and kindness everyday..
January 20, 2021
January 20, 2021
Dear Dave, Julia, Natalie and All of Your Family,
So sorry to hear of the loss of your Mother. I have a beautiful memory of meeting your Mother and father at the Beachhouse party in Ventura. Our wonderful Anne invited me to meet your family and friends and luckily I was able to attend. What a pleasure to meet such a classy couple and your Mother was ever so gracious with her warmth and infectious smile. It was so much fun to see your girls, their cousins and friends enjoy themselves playing the variety of orchestrated games. I could see the love and joy embraced by your mother who was thoroughly enjoying the fun party atmosphere.
May you always cherish those wonderful memories of your mother knowing that she was very special. Condolences to your father and the loss of his life partner. Upon reading the stories and getting a glimpse of her remarkable life, I can see that she has made a profound impact on all those she touched, especially you and her grandchildren. May her loving smile bring you warmth and strength knowing that she will always be in your hearts.
Take Care of Yourself and Your Family.
Sincerely,
Vickey Sahota from Vancouver,BC Canada
Thank-you again for the Invitation and Honour to Meet Your Family!
So sorry to hear of the loss of your Mother. I have a beautiful memory of meeting your Mother and father at the Beachhouse party in Ventura. Our wonderful Anne invited me to meet your family and friends and luckily I was able to attend. What a pleasure to meet such a classy couple and your Mother was ever so gracious with her warmth and infectious smile. It was so much fun to see your girls, their cousins and friends enjoy themselves playing the variety of orchestrated games. I could see the love and joy embraced by your mother who was thoroughly enjoying the fun party atmosphere.
May you always cherish those wonderful memories of your mother knowing that she was very special. Condolences to your father and the loss of his life partner. Upon reading the stories and getting a glimpse of her remarkable life, I can see that she has made a profound impact on all those she touched, especially you and her grandchildren. May her loving smile bring you warmth and strength knowing that she will always be in your hearts.
Take Care of Yourself and Your Family.
Sincerely,
Vickey Sahota from Vancouver,BC Canada
Thank-you again for the Invitation and Honour to Meet Your Family!
January 12, 2021
January 12, 2021
Dear Grandma,
Words can’t express how grateful I am for you and everything you’ve done for me and the rest of the family. You’ve always been an inspiration as a person, investor, teacher, philanthropist, and most importantly, my grandmother. I’ll never forget how you tirelessly made the trip from Sacramento to Honolulu four times a year since we were born and all the visits in August. You are one of the main reasons why my cousins and I grew up with a strong value for education. I wish we had more time to make chocolate coronet cakes (and lick the beaters of course). In addition to these memories I’ll always think of you as someone who gave freely of themselves to others. Whether it was tutoring underprivileged children, teaching us about the stock market, or even banging on the side of the car door when grandpa couldn’t follow directions, you always put others before yourself. Even now, I still cherish the thought and effort you put into each “grandma letter.” Although I’ll never get to blow bubbles at Sans Souci with you again or play boggle on your iPad, I still think of you everyday. I’d be blessed if I can live a life as full and impactful as yours was to me and everyone around you.
Lufe lufa,
Max
Words can’t express how grateful I am for you and everything you’ve done for me and the rest of the family. You’ve always been an inspiration as a person, investor, teacher, philanthropist, and most importantly, my grandmother. I’ll never forget how you tirelessly made the trip from Sacramento to Honolulu four times a year since we were born and all the visits in August. You are one of the main reasons why my cousins and I grew up with a strong value for education. I wish we had more time to make chocolate coronet cakes (and lick the beaters of course). In addition to these memories I’ll always think of you as someone who gave freely of themselves to others. Whether it was tutoring underprivileged children, teaching us about the stock market, or even banging on the side of the car door when grandpa couldn’t follow directions, you always put others before yourself. Even now, I still cherish the thought and effort you put into each “grandma letter.” Although I’ll never get to blow bubbles at Sans Souci with you again or play boggle on your iPad, I still think of you everyday. I’d be blessed if I can live a life as full and impactful as yours was to me and everyone around you.
Lufe lufa,
Max
January 11, 2021
January 11, 2021
Dear Shelly and Michael,
Here is to a life well lived!
Aloha (hello, goodbye and love)......
Chris and Clarissa
Here is to a life well lived!
Aloha (hello, goodbye and love)......
Chris and Clarissa
January 8, 2021
January 8, 2021
Dear Shelly,
Thank you for being a grandmother figure to me throughout my life. I have always felt cared and loved by you and Michael. Thank you for giving me so much love, even though I am not related to you. I'm sorry I did not see you more in the past few years. You were very special to me and I will miss you greatly.
I love you!
Rachel
Thank you for being a grandmother figure to me throughout my life. I have always felt cared and loved by you and Michael. Thank you for giving me so much love, even though I am not related to you. I'm sorry I did not see you more in the past few years. You were very special to me and I will miss you greatly.
I love you!
Rachel
January 7, 2021
January 7, 2021
Michael, you and your extended family are in our thoughts and prayers daily. Shelly was so strong and beautiful. I’m very grateful to have known her and have such good memories of our time together.
With all our love,
Ed, Sherry and Myelle Lansat
With all our love,
Ed, Sherry and Myelle Lansat
January 6, 2021
January 6, 2021
Michael,
It is with a very heavy heart, but unbounded affection and admiration for Shelly and all that she stood for, and did, that I leave this note for you and your family. I am just so sorry it took me so long to write.
Throughout my tenure as President of B'nai Israel, throughout the firebombing and legal aftermath, and through so many events and meetings that were graced by her strength and presence for many years, I admired her then, and admire her now, for the life and family and community that she built around her. I am so very sorry for your loss. May you find peace and ultimately a quiet joy in the woman and life that you built together. Birth is a beginning, and death is a destination, and for Shelly, what a wonderful, graceful and amazing ride. You are in my thoughts.
It is with a very heavy heart, but unbounded affection and admiration for Shelly and all that she stood for, and did, that I leave this note for you and your family. I am just so sorry it took me so long to write.
Throughout my tenure as President of B'nai Israel, throughout the firebombing and legal aftermath, and through so many events and meetings that were graced by her strength and presence for many years, I admired her then, and admire her now, for the life and family and community that she built around her. I am so very sorry for your loss. May you find peace and ultimately a quiet joy in the woman and life that you built together. Birth is a beginning, and death is a destination, and for Shelly, what a wonderful, graceful and amazing ride. You are in my thoughts.
January 2, 2021
January 2, 2021
You and your family are an inspiration to the power of love and caring.
You made Shelly's final journey one of peace, love, safety and comfort.
My condolences to an extraordinary family. Shelly will be missed and her memory held close to our hearts.
You made Shelly's final journey one of peace, love, safety and comfort.
My condolences to an extraordinary family. Shelly will be missed and her memory held close to our hearts.
December 31, 2020
December 31, 2020
When it comes to the art of conversation, we all know someone who seems to have a real talent for it. With complete ease, they can talk to anybody about anything. Shelly was one of those people.
In this era of cellphone texts, abbreviated spelling and ever-present Emojis (not to mention the masks and social distancing of the Pandemic,) we sometimes forget the joy of a good face-to-face conversation! Shelly never did. She really enjoyed talking, and she had a real flair for it.
I didn’t know Shelly when she was young, so I don’t know if she was born with this gift, but she certainly mastered it along the way. She was well-read, confident and friendly, and enjoyed sharing feelings and memories and ideas. And to complete the picture, Shelly was a great listener too, always interested and tuned in during many a gabfest!
Shelly, you live on in the hearts and memories of those who knew you well and loved you—Mike, you are front and center here—and who shared your love of a good, hearty face-to-face conversation.
In this era of cellphone texts, abbreviated spelling and ever-present Emojis (not to mention the masks and social distancing of the Pandemic,) we sometimes forget the joy of a good face-to-face conversation! Shelly never did. She really enjoyed talking, and she had a real flair for it.
I didn’t know Shelly when she was young, so I don’t know if she was born with this gift, but she certainly mastered it along the way. She was well-read, confident and friendly, and enjoyed sharing feelings and memories and ideas. And to complete the picture, Shelly was a great listener too, always interested and tuned in during many a gabfest!
Shelly, you live on in the hearts and memories of those who knew you well and loved you—Mike, you are front and center here—and who shared your love of a good, hearty face-to-face conversation.
December 27, 2020
December 27, 2020
Shelly enriched our lives, as she enriched the lives of so many others. We are grateful to have known her warmth, humor, knowledge, conversation, and cooking. She was at her most vibrant when showing pictures of her family and recounting adventures with her grandkids. Shelly and Michael displayed a partnership of lasting love and respect.
December 23, 2020
December 23, 2020
Shelly,
There are too many memories, all positive and reaffirming that I have of you (and your family). I've known, and loved, all of you for almost 38 years. I think that the most treasured memories for me are the love you have shown Rachel for her entire life. You have been an amazing grandmother to YOUR "real" grandchildren, but you made it very clear that Rachel was an "adopted" granddaughter. Every Hanukkah and every Passover you brought her a thoughtful, beautiful gift, demonstrating your love and affection for her (and us). And you made sure to let her know that she was also a granddaughter to you. For this, I am eternally grateful. Passover Seders were my favorite to share with you and Michael and the Wynbrandts. I loved "taking over" for you and Petra and hosting these. Having you share our Passover table, year after year, is another treasured memory. You and your family will always be so special to me. The unconditional love and support you have always shown is something I can never adequately express my gratitude for. I'll miss you. Your memory will always be a blessing. Love, Ema, Ed and Rachel
There are too many memories, all positive and reaffirming that I have of you (and your family). I've known, and loved, all of you for almost 38 years. I think that the most treasured memories for me are the love you have shown Rachel for her entire life. You have been an amazing grandmother to YOUR "real" grandchildren, but you made it very clear that Rachel was an "adopted" granddaughter. Every Hanukkah and every Passover you brought her a thoughtful, beautiful gift, demonstrating your love and affection for her (and us). And you made sure to let her know that she was also a granddaughter to you. For this, I am eternally grateful. Passover Seders were my favorite to share with you and Michael and the Wynbrandts. I loved "taking over" for you and Petra and hosting these. Having you share our Passover table, year after year, is another treasured memory. You and your family will always be so special to me. The unconditional love and support you have always shown is something I can never adequately express my gratitude for. I'll miss you. Your memory will always be a blessing. Love, Ema, Ed and Rachel
December 20, 2020
December 20, 2020
Dear Mike,
I read of Shelly's passing in the New York Times today. My condolences to you and your wonderful family. Your marriage was an inspiration to all of us. You and Shelly taught us all how to live a full and generous life. Bill and I send our love and admiration.
I read of Shelly's passing in the New York Times today. My condolences to you and your wonderful family. Your marriage was an inspiration to all of us. You and Shelly taught us all how to live a full and generous life. Bill and I send our love and admiration.
December 17, 2020
December 17, 2020
Linda & I send our deepest and loving condolences to you and your family for the loss of your beloved Shelly. We could see that the two of you loved each other deeply. You and Shelly created an environment of love and acceptance for all who were fortunate to enter. We always felt a very warm welcome being greeted by the delightful warm smile lighting up her eyes (and, Michael, the twinkle in yours) when we saw each other. Your life with Shelly and your wonderful family created so many memories rich with experiences of all kinds: the stories will help sustain you and your family. We read many of the tributes online and were deeply affected by the intense love and appreciation of their grandmother, Shelly, by her grandchildren as they wrote of their many favorite experiences . She and you, Michael, have created this extraordinary family. Love, Eliel & Linda
December 14, 2020
December 14, 2020
I met Shelly in 2017 when I started coaching Michael for his trek to Everest Base Camp. I liked her right away, Michael too :-). The three of us talked about what it takes to do the trek. We had several of these meetings and I could tell how much they both loved and cared for one another. Shelly has been a terrific woman for Michael and an extremely important part of his life. She will live on in his heart forever. What a wonderful relationship they had. Many blessings Michael! Jim Geiger
December 14, 2020
December 14, 2020
I was extremely sad to learn of Shelly's death. Although we didn't have the opportunity to see each other often, when we did, it always was a happy occasion with her, Michael and Dave. We had some good times together, including a lovely Thanksgiving in my home in Little Rock. (And one not so good, which we laughed about later-- remember the Chinese restaurant ? ) Shelly was a lot of fun, interesting to talk to, and graciously made me and my daughter feel part of the Schermer family, which we still and will always consider ourselves to be.
December 11, 2020
December 11, 2020
Mike,
We loved having you and Shelly as our neighbors and have missed you since we've moved. When thinking about our times together, we recall fondly Shelly's smile, our conversations about best books to read, her forthright political opinions, and discussions about investments and philanthropy.
It was so obvious that Shelly was the love of your life and now your memories of your years together will sustain you. Reading about your vigil toward the end of Shelly's ordeal was an inspiring testament of your love for her.
Our condolences . . .
Steve & Anne Marie Gold
We loved having you and Shelly as our neighbors and have missed you since we've moved. When thinking about our times together, we recall fondly Shelly's smile, our conversations about best books to read, her forthright political opinions, and discussions about investments and philanthropy.
It was so obvious that Shelly was the love of your life and now your memories of your years together will sustain you. Reading about your vigil toward the end of Shelly's ordeal was an inspiring testament of your love for her.
Our condolences . . .
Steve & Anne Marie Gold
December 7, 2020
December 7, 2020
Dear Mike,
I always enjoyed the sweet smile you would get on your face whenever I asked about Shelly. I pray you and your family find comfort.
I always enjoyed the sweet smile you would get on your face whenever I asked about Shelly. I pray you and your family find comfort.
December 6, 2020
December 6, 2020
Dear Mike, Dave, and Family;
We are saddened to learn of Shelly’s passing. Please know that your correspondence over the past year has kept you all in our hearts and minds. Of course our friendship dates back more than 50 years to Ann Arbor and though opportunities to spend time together were few, they were always memorable. Her sparkling smile and easygoing manner will never be forgotten. Our thoughts are with you all.
Much love, Cheryl and Bob Gilhooley
We are saddened to learn of Shelly’s passing. Please know that your correspondence over the past year has kept you all in our hearts and minds. Of course our friendship dates back more than 50 years to Ann Arbor and though opportunities to spend time together were few, they were always memorable. Her sparkling smile and easygoing manner will never be forgotten. Our thoughts are with you all.
Much love, Cheryl and Bob Gilhooley
December 6, 2020
December 6, 2020
We are so saddened to hear of Shelly’s passing. The love, warmth and closeness reflected in this wonderful memorial site is a tribute to the marvelous family that you, Mike, and Shelly nurtured. We know that you and Shelly were amazingly strong people with all that the two of you have been through and we are so touched by the caring exemplified by your love during this very difficult time. Although we didn’t have the opportunity to spend much time with the two of you, Bruce always had a feeling that Shelly was a long-lost cousin and Shelly and Bruce would joke about being cousins. We wish Mike and the family continued strength and love.
December 6, 2020
December 6, 2020
Thank you, members of the Schermer family and others, for sharing the incredible story of Shelly's life as told in this morning's Sacramento Bee and in the many tributes I've just read online. I didn't know her well, but always enjoyed the brief encounters we had at community events. And after each of those occasions I can recall thinking how nice it would be to get to know her better.
I'm so sorry for the loss of such an accomplished, loved and respected person.
Sincerely,
Estelle Saltzman
I'm so sorry for the loss of such an accomplished, loved and respected person.
Sincerely,
Estelle Saltzman
December 6, 2020
December 6, 2020
My heart aches for the entire Schermer family for the loss of their bright shining guiding star. Shelly was an amazing woman who will be remembered, by me, for her absolute commitment to her family. Since meeting in 1981 when I began work in their “family business” Shelly and Mike always made me feel part of the office family, and graciously included me in many of their family events. Shelly helped me in so many ways over the years with her wisdom, humor, insight, guidance and friendship. I sought her advice many times and knew I would always get a thoughtful, knowledgeable and trusted answer. Her favorite topic, however, was our Grandma talks! Shelly will not be forgotten because her bright shining star will continue to shine and guide. RIP beautiful lady.
Leave a Tribute
Recent Tributes
June 29
June 29
Thinking of Shelly and the wonderful woman, wife, mother and grandmother that she was. As always , Karen and I are thinking of you, Michael, and knowing how much you must miss your wonderful wife. God bless. Steve and Karen
November 29, 2023
November 29, 2023
Ethan was born on this day 53 years ago.
The Day Ethan was Born
We knew this could be difficult because it was a 60 mile drive to the hospital where Shelly would deliver her second baby. In 1970 we were living on the Papago Indian Reservation in the southern Arizona desert. Since the Indian hospital was for the exclusive use of the Indian population we were discouraged from using any of its scarce resources, so even though I had delivered dozens of babies at the Indian hospital we had to drive for 90 minutes to get to Tucson. My recollection is that Shelly’s water broke in the afternoon of Sunday, November 29, 1970. My mother Rose was visiting from Florida to look after David, who was not quite two years old. Shelly sat in the front seat while I drove on the nearly deserted desert road. Her contraction intervals shortened to less than a minute as we approached Tucson. All the while I knew that in the unlikely event we did not make it in time, I could pull over to deliver the baby. We brought rudimentary supplies like a clean sheet, sterile scissors, and clean towels. Shelly was relaxed and confident because she had absolute trust in me. All the while I was reviewing in my head what I would do if our second child was born before we made it to the hospital.
The contractions were about a minute apart when we got to Tucson. Our OBGYN had been alerted, so he met us in the admitting department. Shelly was whisked to a hospital room where she could be examined, a few minutes later the OBGYN came to talk to me, man to man, doctor to doctor. He asked if I wanted Shelly to have twilight sleep sedation. This would make the delivery painless, but she would lose all memory of the event. Remember this was 1970. It did not occur to me or the OBGYN to ask Shelly about this. Without hesitation, I answered “Yes” since I didn’t want my beloved to be in pain. Later when Shelly learned about this decision she was angry over not being consulted. Again, remember this was 1970, so her reaction surprised me until I realized that I had stolen the precious, intimate experience of a natural childbirth.
Ethan was born about half an hour after my misbegotten decision, on a warm clear sunny desert day. His Apgar score was a perfect ten. I saw him for the first time through the glass of the nursery, swaddled in a blanket sleeping peacefully in his bassinet. My heart swelled with pride. We had another healthy son and Shelly came through like a trooper. He had a future as big and bright as the desert sky.
There is a touching picture in the gallery of tiny Ethan in the arms of his beautiful, serene young mother as she lay in bed recovering. It is one of my all-time favorites because he is looking up at her with wonder and she is lovingly kissing his little forehead. He had a world of support, love, and opportunity.
I must have driven back to the reservation sometime Sunday night. Shelly came home on Tuesday. My mother and little David were there to greet Shelly and Ethan with a welcome sign and flowers. It was a perfect beginning, with a healthy pink infant and a strong stoic mother. This was exactly what we expected at that time. We had a storybook life where only good things happened. Shelly forgave me and we walked down the path of the future with smiles and unbounded optimism, not willing to believe that the uncertain journey we call life could ever bring us harm.
The Day Ethan was Born
We knew this could be difficult because it was a 60 mile drive to the hospital where Shelly would deliver her second baby. In 1970 we were living on the Papago Indian Reservation in the southern Arizona desert. Since the Indian hospital was for the exclusive use of the Indian population we were discouraged from using any of its scarce resources, so even though I had delivered dozens of babies at the Indian hospital we had to drive for 90 minutes to get to Tucson. My recollection is that Shelly’s water broke in the afternoon of Sunday, November 29, 1970. My mother Rose was visiting from Florida to look after David, who was not quite two years old. Shelly sat in the front seat while I drove on the nearly deserted desert road. Her contraction intervals shortened to less than a minute as we approached Tucson. All the while I knew that in the unlikely event we did not make it in time, I could pull over to deliver the baby. We brought rudimentary supplies like a clean sheet, sterile scissors, and clean towels. Shelly was relaxed and confident because she had absolute trust in me. All the while I was reviewing in my head what I would do if our second child was born before we made it to the hospital.
The contractions were about a minute apart when we got to Tucson. Our OBGYN had been alerted, so he met us in the admitting department. Shelly was whisked to a hospital room where she could be examined, a few minutes later the OBGYN came to talk to me, man to man, doctor to doctor. He asked if I wanted Shelly to have twilight sleep sedation. This would make the delivery painless, but she would lose all memory of the event. Remember this was 1970. It did not occur to me or the OBGYN to ask Shelly about this. Without hesitation, I answered “Yes” since I didn’t want my beloved to be in pain. Later when Shelly learned about this decision she was angry over not being consulted. Again, remember this was 1970, so her reaction surprised me until I realized that I had stolen the precious, intimate experience of a natural childbirth.
Ethan was born about half an hour after my misbegotten decision, on a warm clear sunny desert day. His Apgar score was a perfect ten. I saw him for the first time through the glass of the nursery, swaddled in a blanket sleeping peacefully in his bassinet. My heart swelled with pride. We had another healthy son and Shelly came through like a trooper. He had a future as big and bright as the desert sky.
There is a touching picture in the gallery of tiny Ethan in the arms of his beautiful, serene young mother as she lay in bed recovering. It is one of my all-time favorites because he is looking up at her with wonder and she is lovingly kissing his little forehead. He had a world of support, love, and opportunity.
I must have driven back to the reservation sometime Sunday night. Shelly came home on Tuesday. My mother and little David were there to greet Shelly and Ethan with a welcome sign and flowers. It was a perfect beginning, with a healthy pink infant and a strong stoic mother. This was exactly what we expected at that time. We had a storybook life where only good things happened. Shelly forgave me and we walked down the path of the future with smiles and unbounded optimism, not willing to believe that the uncertain journey we call life could ever bring us harm.
November 6, 2023
November 6, 2023
Hi Grandma!
I hope you're doing great. I can't believe I'm already in my senior year of college and Holden's up here with me just beginning as a freshman. This year will be one of reflection, closure, and new beginnings as I begin the medical school application process and connect with friends old and new. I'm really excited and lucky to have a few trips lined up - the first of which is my Vancouver Thanksgiving trip with my 'Iolani friends. It's thanks to you that I can have experiences like these during my youth that will stick with me forever and serve as very welcome breaks in what can be a rough academic year. It's also been so good to see grandpa more as he's mellowed out and is making the most of life recently. Thinking of you always and miss you so much.
LUFE LUFA,
Max
I hope you're doing great. I can't believe I'm already in my senior year of college and Holden's up here with me just beginning as a freshman. This year will be one of reflection, closure, and new beginnings as I begin the medical school application process and connect with friends old and new. I'm really excited and lucky to have a few trips lined up - the first of which is my Vancouver Thanksgiving trip with my 'Iolani friends. It's thanks to you that I can have experiences like these during my youth that will stick with me forever and serve as very welcome breaks in what can be a rough academic year. It's also been so good to see grandpa more as he's mellowed out and is making the most of life recently. Thinking of you always and miss you so much.
LUFE LUFA,
Max
Gallery
Happy anniversary Mom and Dad! Married December 22, 1965.
Beautiful Shelly you are in our hearts forever, Felipe and David
I opened my mail today, June 28 2023, expecting a work form that Dr. Michael Schermer had graciously signed for me...and got this too. Amazing. Thank you, Shelly.
I went to all the links, one of them bringing me to this site. I believe these cards should be in widespread use in schools, what a useful legacy from Shelly. ❤️
Her tree in the Davis Memorial Grove is now 1 year old. I added her picture to the support.
Her Life
Shelly Schermer - June 29, 1944 to December 2, 2020
December 2, 2020
Rochelle Berg Schermer was hit by a thunderbolt on June 28, 2019, when her aorta suddenly ripped apart. This was one day before her 75th birthday. The stars lined up to keep her alive, but she suffered small strokes and spinal cord damage which left her a paraplegic. After nine hours of open heart surgery, two months of excellent care at the UC Davis Medical Center in Sacramento and a month in skilled nursing, it was back to the East Sacramento home that she occupied and loved for 42 years. No longer able to walk, let alone climb stairs, Shelly moved into the converted dining room. This kept her in the mainstream of the home. The large windows provided comforting sunlight and garden views as the seasons changed.
At age 76, she was on a new uncharted journey that gave Michael, her husband of 54 years, a seldom received opportunity to pay her back for decades of love, unconditional support and sage advice. Shelly made a remarkable adjustment to her abrupt loss of independence, but the beating her body had endured was eroding her new normal. After months of almost imperceptible decline, she all but stopped eating and drinking. This prompted her last hospital admission. In four days, it was determined that the only options to prolong her life as an aged paraplegic were ones she firmly rejected. At home on hospice care, her son Dave and all four of her beloved teenaged grandchildren congregated; Julia & Natalie from Ventura, Max from Boston and Holden from Honolulu. Each had priceless private time with Shelly. Her last days were colored by a unique brew of love, comfort, sadness and teenage cavorting.
Shelly’s journey to life everlasting begins in Chicago in 1944 as the daughter of Henry and Doris and the little sister of Larry. When she was ten, the family of four moved to Evanston, Illinois. Here Shelly was a member of the Y Club and the Evanston Township High School class of 1962. Her next stop was the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor where she joined the Alpha Epsilon Phi sorority and graduated in 1966. One spring day in 1965, on the steps of the Sammy fraternity house, she met Michael. They were married in Ann Arbor in December of that same year. It was the beginning of the treasured, categorical support she provided until that shocking day in June 2019. Along the way, Shelly put Michael through medical school by working as a high school teacher in Pinkney, Michigan. She gave birth to two remarkable boys, David and Ethan, who spent two of their childhood years with the family on the Papago Indian Reservation in Arizona. When they moved to Davis in 1972, Shelly decided to attend law school, first at McGeorge, then at UC Davis King Hall, where she was Order of the Coif, graduating number two in the class of 1977. A year later, the family made its last move to the house on the corner in East Sacramento known affectionately as “Cleaver Hill.”
Her first job as an attorney was with Blease Vanderlaan and Rothschild, she subsequently worked with Boling Pothoven, Kronick Moskovitz and finally Zarick Harlen. Shelly was able to use her legal background to excel at financial planning. In addition, she served on the boards of Sacramento’s B’nai Israel congregation, The Jewish Community Relations Council and for several years she was the president of the Fortune Cookies investment club. Her love of reading made it easy for her to be active in two book clubs, the Medical Alliance book club and Rabbi Alfi’s book club. For a time, she was a docent at the Crocker Art Museum. Late in life, Shelly became an enthusiastic advocate of DemsVote. She also returned to teaching by volunteering for both Reading Partners and the START program at Jedediah Smith Elementary School.
Shelly always said, “Hope for the best and prepare for the worst,” but she was not prepared for the deepest cut of all when her beloved son Ethan suddenly and unexpectedly died in 2009. The serenity prayer helped her to heal and gave her the strength to provide essential support for others at that tragic time. Her last breath was taken on Wednesday December 2, 2020 at home, cradled in the arms of Michael and David. Now she rests with her son Ethan, her father who was her role model and her dear mother.
Shelly put her funeral arrangements entirely in Michael’s hands. A small service was held for the immediate family. Michael asks only that those who would have attended a memorial devote an equivalent amount of time to some form of community service as a way to honor Shelly by making the world just a little bit better.
For details of Shelly's Aorta Journey click here to see Michael's blog.
At age 76, she was on a new uncharted journey that gave Michael, her husband of 54 years, a seldom received opportunity to pay her back for decades of love, unconditional support and sage advice. Shelly made a remarkable adjustment to her abrupt loss of independence, but the beating her body had endured was eroding her new normal. After months of almost imperceptible decline, she all but stopped eating and drinking. This prompted her last hospital admission. In four days, it was determined that the only options to prolong her life as an aged paraplegic were ones she firmly rejected. At home on hospice care, her son Dave and all four of her beloved teenaged grandchildren congregated; Julia & Natalie from Ventura, Max from Boston and Holden from Honolulu. Each had priceless private time with Shelly. Her last days were colored by a unique brew of love, comfort, sadness and teenage cavorting.
Shelly’s journey to life everlasting begins in Chicago in 1944 as the daughter of Henry and Doris and the little sister of Larry. When she was ten, the family of four moved to Evanston, Illinois. Here Shelly was a member of the Y Club and the Evanston Township High School class of 1962. Her next stop was the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor where she joined the Alpha Epsilon Phi sorority and graduated in 1966. One spring day in 1965, on the steps of the Sammy fraternity house, she met Michael. They were married in Ann Arbor in December of that same year. It was the beginning of the treasured, categorical support she provided until that shocking day in June 2019. Along the way, Shelly put Michael through medical school by working as a high school teacher in Pinkney, Michigan. She gave birth to two remarkable boys, David and Ethan, who spent two of their childhood years with the family on the Papago Indian Reservation in Arizona. When they moved to Davis in 1972, Shelly decided to attend law school, first at McGeorge, then at UC Davis King Hall, where she was Order of the Coif, graduating number two in the class of 1977. A year later, the family made its last move to the house on the corner in East Sacramento known affectionately as “Cleaver Hill.”
Her first job as an attorney was with Blease Vanderlaan and Rothschild, she subsequently worked with Boling Pothoven, Kronick Moskovitz and finally Zarick Harlen. Shelly was able to use her legal background to excel at financial planning. In addition, she served on the boards of Sacramento’s B’nai Israel congregation, The Jewish Community Relations Council and for several years she was the president of the Fortune Cookies investment club. Her love of reading made it easy for her to be active in two book clubs, the Medical Alliance book club and Rabbi Alfi’s book club. For a time, she was a docent at the Crocker Art Museum. Late in life, Shelly became an enthusiastic advocate of DemsVote. She also returned to teaching by volunteering for both Reading Partners and the START program at Jedediah Smith Elementary School.
Shelly always said, “Hope for the best and prepare for the worst,” but she was not prepared for the deepest cut of all when her beloved son Ethan suddenly and unexpectedly died in 2009. The serenity prayer helped her to heal and gave her the strength to provide essential support for others at that tragic time. Her last breath was taken on Wednesday December 2, 2020 at home, cradled in the arms of Michael and David. Now she rests with her son Ethan, her father who was her role model and her dear mother.
Shelly put her funeral arrangements entirely in Michael’s hands. A small service was held for the immediate family. Michael asks only that those who would have attended a memorial devote an equivalent amount of time to some form of community service as a way to honor Shelly by making the world just a little bit better.
For details of Shelly's Aorta Journey click here to see Michael's blog.
Ethan Schermer 1970 - 2009
March 18, 2021
For Shelly the loss of Ethan far exceeded the loss of her legs and her independence. Now they rest together, in peace, having reached their final destinations.
Birth is a beginning
And death a destination
And life is a journey
A sacred pilgrimage to life everlasting
This is a link to Ethan's memorial website created in 2009.
Birth is a beginning
And death a destination
And life is a journey
A sacred pilgrimage to life everlasting
This is a link to Ethan's memorial website created in 2009.
Everest Base Camp (EBC)
May 8, 2022
If you would like to know more about Michael's trek to EBC here are two links:
Selected Pictures click here.
Short blog link.
Selected Pictures click here.
Short blog link.
Recent stories
November 29, 2023
The Day Ethan was Born
We knew this could be difficult because it was a 60 mile drive to the hospital where Shelly would deliver her second baby. In 1970 we were living on the Papago Indian Reservation in the southern Arizona desert. Since the Indian hospital was for the exclusive use of the Indian population we were discouraged from using any of its scarce resources, so even though I had delivered dozens of babies at the Indian hospital we had to drive for 90 minutes to get to Tucson. My recollection is that Shelly’s water broke in the afternoon of Sunday, November 29, 1970. My mother Rose was visiting from Florida to look after David, who was not quite two years old. Shelly sat in the front seat while I drove on the nearly deserted desert road. Her contraction intervals shortened to less than a minute as we approached Tucson. All the while I knew that in the unlikely event we did not make it in time, I could pull over to deliver the baby. We brought rudimentary supplies like a clean sheet, sterile scissors, and clean towels. Shelly was relaxed and confident because she had absolute trust in me. All the while I was reviewing in my head what I would do if our second child was born before we made it to the hospital.
The contractions were about a minute apart when we got to Tucson. Our OBGYN had been alerted, so he met us in the admitting department. Shelly was whisked to a hospital room where she could be examined, a few minutes later the OBGYN came to talk to me, man to man, doctor to doctor. He asked if I wanted Shelly to have twilight sleep sedation. This would make the delivery painless, but she would lose all memory of the event. Remember this was 1970. It did not occur to me or the OBGYN to ask Shelly about this. Without hesitation, I answered “Yes” since I didn’t want my beloved to be in pain. Later when Shelly learned about this decision she was angry over not being consulted. Again, remember this was 1970, so her reaction surprised me until I realized that I had stolen the precious, intimate experience of a natural childbirth.
Ethan was born about half an hour after my misbegotten decision, on a warm clear sunny desert day. His Apgar score was a perfect ten. I saw him for the first time through the glass of the nursery, swaddled in a blanket sleeping peacefully in his bassinet. My heart swelled with pride. We had another healthy son and Shelly came through like a trooper. He had a future as big and bright as the desert sky.
This is a touching picture of tiny Ethan in the arms of his beautiful, serene young mother as she lay in bed recovering. It is one of my all-time favorites because he is looking up at her with wonder and she is lovingly kissing his little forehead. He had a world of support, love, and opportunity.
I must have driven back to the reservation sometime Sunday night. Shelly came home on Tuesday. My mother and little David were there to greet Shelly and Ethan with a welcome sign and flowers. It was a perfect beginning, with a healthy pink infant and a strong stoic mother. This was exactly what we expected at that time. We had a storybook life where only good things happened. Shelly forgave me and we walked down the path of the future with smiles and unbounded optimism, not willing to believe that the uncertain journey we call life could ever bring us harm.
We knew this could be difficult because it was a 60 mile drive to the hospital where Shelly would deliver her second baby. In 1970 we were living on the Papago Indian Reservation in the southern Arizona desert. Since the Indian hospital was for the exclusive use of the Indian population we were discouraged from using any of its scarce resources, so even though I had delivered dozens of babies at the Indian hospital we had to drive for 90 minutes to get to Tucson. My recollection is that Shelly’s water broke in the afternoon of Sunday, November 29, 1970. My mother Rose was visiting from Florida to look after David, who was not quite two years old. Shelly sat in the front seat while I drove on the nearly deserted desert road. Her contraction intervals shortened to less than a minute as we approached Tucson. All the while I knew that in the unlikely event we did not make it in time, I could pull over to deliver the baby. We brought rudimentary supplies like a clean sheet, sterile scissors, and clean towels. Shelly was relaxed and confident because she had absolute trust in me. All the while I was reviewing in my head what I would do if our second child was born before we made it to the hospital.
The contractions were about a minute apart when we got to Tucson. Our OBGYN had been alerted, so he met us in the admitting department. Shelly was whisked to a hospital room where she could be examined, a few minutes later the OBGYN came to talk to me, man to man, doctor to doctor. He asked if I wanted Shelly to have twilight sleep sedation. This would make the delivery painless, but she would lose all memory of the event. Remember this was 1970. It did not occur to me or the OBGYN to ask Shelly about this. Without hesitation, I answered “Yes” since I didn’t want my beloved to be in pain. Later when Shelly learned about this decision she was angry over not being consulted. Again, remember this was 1970, so her reaction surprised me until I realized that I had stolen the precious, intimate experience of a natural childbirth.
Ethan was born about half an hour after my misbegotten decision, on a warm clear sunny desert day. His Apgar score was a perfect ten. I saw him for the first time through the glass of the nursery, swaddled in a blanket sleeping peacefully in his bassinet. My heart swelled with pride. We had another healthy son and Shelly came through like a trooper. He had a future as big and bright as the desert sky.
This is a touching picture of tiny Ethan in the arms of his beautiful, serene young mother as she lay in bed recovering. It is one of my all-time favorites because he is looking up at her with wonder and she is lovingly kissing his little forehead. He had a world of support, love, and opportunity.
I must have driven back to the reservation sometime Sunday night. Shelly came home on Tuesday. My mother and little David were there to greet Shelly and Ethan with a welcome sign and flowers. It was a perfect beginning, with a healthy pink infant and a strong stoic mother. This was exactly what we expected at that time. We had a storybook life where only good things happened. Shelly forgave me and we walked down the path of the future with smiles and unbounded optimism, not willing to believe that the uncertain journey we call life could ever bring us harm.
November 4, 2022
This week, almost a full two years since Dear Shelly
passed, I began a serious de-cluttering project. Phase one is Shelly’s Paradise Room, her
study with the blue leather LazyBoy, her computer, her files, a TV, loads of
shelf space, and certainly not least, Jenny and Blinky. The shelves were piled mainly with art
supplies and examples of her artwork. I
knew that she wanted to improve at this amateur pastime that she enjoyed so much. She had taken a few courses at Sac. City and
once even drove by herself to Yosemite for three days of outdoor instruction in
one of our favorite places.
I discovered some things that, for me, are treasures. About 10 years ago, she made a picture book based on “My Favorite Things” from “Sound of Music.” This featured drawings of all the grandchildren. It was something I thought was just for the family. Today I learned that she had submitted it to a few publishers. This solicitation is either never shared with me or something I forgot. Odds are it is the former. I can see her analytical mind reasoning that an acceptance would be shared with joy and pride, whereas a rejection could be kept quite personal. There were a couple of formal polite rejection letters in her files. The little picture book is still on a shelf in her study. I think she did have copies made for the kids.
Three of her works are on display in the house. Right now I am looking at a pencil drawing self-portrait that hangs by my desk. A blue and white ink abstract is on another wall in the Cave, pretty sure this was done even before I met her. Many years ago she focused on images of fountains. One of these called “Study Break” is on the wall in the bathroom I use at least twice every day. It is small, well-composed, and shows a lot of promise.
Two other self-portraits are worth framing, so I’ll have this done. They measure about 11 by 13 inches. With some luck, these framed pieces, along with the aforementioned items will become family heirlooms. One of the two discoveries has a red white and blue American Flag theme. I call this the “Fourth of Shelly,” or perhaps "Red White & Shelly," the other is a swirling line drawing in black and white.
I discovered some things that, for me, are treasures. About 10 years ago, she made a picture book based on “My Favorite Things” from “Sound of Music.” This featured drawings of all the grandchildren. It was something I thought was just for the family. Today I learned that she had submitted it to a few publishers. This solicitation is either never shared with me or something I forgot. Odds are it is the former. I can see her analytical mind reasoning that an acceptance would be shared with joy and pride, whereas a rejection could be kept quite personal. There were a couple of formal polite rejection letters in her files. The little picture book is still on a shelf in her study. I think she did have copies made for the kids.
Three of her works are on display in the house. Right now I am looking at a pencil drawing self-portrait that hangs by my desk. A blue and white ink abstract is on another wall in the Cave, pretty sure this was done even before I met her. Many years ago she focused on images of fountains. One of these called “Study Break” is on the wall in the bathroom I use at least twice every day. It is small, well-composed, and shows a lot of promise.
Two other self-portraits are worth framing, so I’ll have this done. They measure about 11 by 13 inches. With some luck, these framed pieces, along with the aforementioned items will become family heirlooms. One of the two discoveries has a red white and blue American Flag theme. I call this the “Fourth of Shelly,” or perhaps "Red White & Shelly," the other is a swirling line drawing in black and white.
Shelly's bench is in a shaded area facing the front of Shields library.
July 30, 2021
Shelly lived in Davis for seven years before moving to Sacramento. She loved being a student so it is appropriate that she have a bench on the UCD campus. Julia and Natalie were among the first to grace Shelly's bench when they visited Sacramento in July, 2021.