Geraldine "Geri" Anne Schacht

It is with deep sorrow and enormous gratitude that we announce the passing of Geraldine Anne Schacht, known lovingly as Geri, on July 21, 2024, at 74. She was surrounded by her family and passed peacefully of natural causes after a long fight.

 Born on August 20, 1949, in Mankato, Minnesota, Geri was the cherished daughter of Gerald and Grace Baker. As one of ten children, Geri’s early years were filled with responsibility and love as she often helped care for her younger siblings. Many of her siblings considered her a second mother, a testament to her nurturing spirit from a young age. 

Geri demonstrated an extraordinary work ethic and commitment to her family throughout her life. Her career path was as diverse as it was impactful. From her early days as a Mary Kay beauty consultant and bartender/manager, where she built connections and shared laughter with patrons, to managing an apartment complex with remarkable expertise despite having no formal training. Geri also spent time as a daycare teacher and various jobs at meat companies doing whatever it took to help her family. Geri's versatility and dedication to supporting her family were truly impressive. She was resilient, dedicated herself to learning new skills, and was determined not to let anything stand in the way of her goals. 

Although Geri embraced numerous roles throughout her life, it was in her later years that she found her true calling. Working with adults with disabilities, she uncovered a deep passion for advocacy and support. Her contributions to this field were defined by her heartfelt compassion, unwavering dedication, and relentless efforts to enhance the lives of those she served. Over the years, she committed herself fully to this work, eventually retiring as a manager overseeing several homes dedicated to supporting adults with disabilities. 

Geri was married to Terry Schacht for 47 years. They met playing in the adult softball city league in Luverne, MN. They moved many times in their early years following employment opportunities that arose before finally settling in Eugene Oregon for the past 40 years.  She loved taking motorcycle rides and going to the Oregon coast with Terry.  

Her life was centered around her children, Lesa Haley (husband Chris), Chad Schacht, and Rachel Schacht (partner Kelli Stonelake) all of Eugene, OR.  Geri’s dedication and hard work ensured that her children had the opportunity to pursue their passions. She was a constant presence at every event, never missing a basketball game, soccer match, softball game, baseball game, water polo match, swim meet, or track meet. Her involvement went far beyond the sidelines; she volunteered as a basketball coach and served as a stroke and turn judge for swimming, despite not being able to swim herself. This was entirely in character for anyone who knew Geri. She consistently demonstrated her dedication and commitment, tackling every challenge with determination and passion. Geri found immense joy in watching her children grow and thrive, and her legacy is carried on through them and their achievements. 

In addition to her children, Geri is survived by her grandchildren Shoniece Maurer (husband Otto) of San Diego CA, Brittany Luna Means (partner Brendan Means) of Eugene Oregon, Shawntel Wagoner (husband Isiah) of Eugene, OR, Garrett Haley (wife Amy) of Seattle WA, and Kaitlin Haley (fiance Tucker Peterson) of Murrieta, CA and five great-grandchildren with another great grandchild on the way, who were the light of her life. She took immense pride in their accomplishments and delighted in their presence.

She is also survived by her brother Roger Baker, Pat Baker (wife Kathy), Jay Baker, Todd Baker, Heidi Sutherland (husband Kevin), Shelly Gaddis (husband Glenn), Shaun Baker (wife Melissa), and many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by her father Gerald Baker, mother Grace Baker, and brothers Greg and Doug Baker.

Her spirit of hard work and dedication extended beyond her immediate family, touching the lives of many who admired her resilience, dedication, and hard work. May her soul rest in peace, and may we find solace in the enduring legacy of strength, love and compassion she leaves behind.  

Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service on August 20, 2024, at 1pm  at the Musgrove Family Mortuary, 225 S. Danebo Ave. Eugene, where we will gather to honor her memory and the profound impact she had on all of us.

Flowers may be sent to Musgrove Family Mortuary to the above address.