Callie Jane Schopfer

Callie Jane Schopfer

March 20, 1956 - September 24, 2010

Callie Jane Schopfer blessed all who knew her with her compassionate spirit, kind and gentle nature, and glowing smile. Her family and friends were all touched by her deep love and caring heart. Callie was born to Gwen and Jim Johnson in Spokane, Washington. Her childhood was spent on Oahu, Hawaii, where the Johnsons lived for 8 years. She attended Punahou School in Honolulu. The family moved to Corona del Mar in 1971. Callie graduated from Corona del Mar High School and the University of California, San Diego and then worked in Southern California for the next 14 years. She developed long lasting relationships with clients and colleagues at Incentive Associates, a corporate travel incentive company.

Callie and daughter Sarah were members of the Newport Center United Methodist Church, where she met husband John. Following their marriage in 1992, they spanned the globe with their travels and adventures, including a mission work team in Kenya. Sons Noah and Jonah were born in Washington and Hawaii. The Schopfers set up home in many places, most recently in Sarasota, Florida. Callie was a graceful hula dancer and lively country western dancer. She loved to snorkel, swim, hike, read and prepare wholesome meals. She generously shared her talents with her knitted bags and scarves and wreaths created from natural materials. She excelled as a senior representative for her Silpada jewelry business.

Callie’s inner strength and faith inspired others, as she walked with courage through 4 ½ years of cancer. She was a devoted wife, extraordinary mother, loving daughter, faithful sister, and loyal friend. Callie is survived by husband John Schopfer and their collective children Sarah, Noah, Jonah, Rebecca and Nicole, parents Gwen and Jim Johnson, sister Jennifer Lord and brother-in-law Bryan, sister Melissa Johnson, and niece Anna Smyers and family.

A praise service was held at the First United Methodist Church in Sarasota, FL on September 30, 2010, and a memorial tree planting was held on October 3 at the Waldorf School in Kimberton, PA. A celebration of Callie’s life will also be held at the Newport Center United Methodist Church on December 19, 2010.

The Callie’s Kenyan Children’s Fund has been established in Callie’s memory. Those who wish to make a contribution may send donations payable to the Newport Center United Methodist Church with reference to Callie’s Fund, 1601 Marguerite Avenue, Corona del Mar, CA 92625.