Emma Louise Schmaderer

Emma Louise Schmaderer, age 82 of Omaha, Nebraska passed away on February, 28, 2026, comforted by the presence of her husband, children, and grandchildren at Josie Harper Hospice House in Omaha, Nebraska. Emma, also known as “Emmy”, left behind an admirable legacy of faith, strength, and unconditional love for her family.

Born in Sarcoxie, Missouri on February 20, 1944, Emma grew up on a farm where she established a foundation consisting of hard work, resilience, and a steady, nurturing spirit. Emma graduated from Sarcoxie High School in 1962, where she served as the President of Future Homemakers of America, participated in the band playing the clarinet, was a cheerleader, and sung in the choir as a member of the Glee Club. As one fellow student wrote in the Class of ‘62 Yearbook, “Emmy was fine as a student, but even better as a friend.”

After graduation, Emma moved to Omaha, Nebraska, where she attended the College of Saint Mary, pursuing a degree in education before teaching home economics. In Emma’s time teaching, her patience, kindness, and steady guidance was on full display to her students. While in Omaha, Emma met and married her husband, Rich. Together, they built a home grounded in faith, love and commitment. As her family grew, Emma pivoted her focus fully to caring for those she loved most- her husband, her four children, and her six grandchildren.

Emma was a faithful Catholic and belonged to St. Leo Catholic Church. Emma’s faith served not only as the foundation of her own life, but as the compass for her family as well. She emphasized the importance of church, prayer, and gratitude. She ensured that Sunday Mass and religious tradition were a central part of her family’s life.

Emma found joy in life’s simple routines. For years, Emma began her mornings with breakfast at HyVee, where familiar faces and friendly conversations became part of her daily rhythm. She loved playing cards, gathering around the table with family and friends, filling the home with warmth and laughter. Emma was a regular fixture at the sporting events of her kids and grandkids, rarely missing a game.

Most of all, Emma was a devoted caretaker and the heart of her family. Her home was a place of comfort, her kitchen a place of nourishment, and her presence a source of reassurance. She gave of herself selflessly and consistently, shaping the lives of her family in ways that will endure far beyond her years.

Emma’s life was a testament to love rooted in faith and lived out in service to others. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know her.

She was preceded in death by her parents (Arthur and Loretta Heman), siblings (Kenneth Heman, Sister Deloris Heman, Lawrence Heman), in-laws (Mary Heman, Kenneth Kulus, Curtis Young, Edward and Marlene Sargent, Dorothy Schmaderer, Jerry Schmaderer).

She is survived by her husband of 56 years (Richard Schmaderer), children Kayleen Degener, Todd Schmaderer, Melissa (Jon) Comine, Brian Schmaderer), grandchildren (Ryan Degener, Tyler Degener, Ashlynn (Cole) Schaedel, Erik Degener, Kayli Comine, Garret Schmaderer), in-laws (Carolyn Heman, Linda Heman, Helen Schmaderer, LaVonne Kulus, Maurice Schmaderer, Karen and Bob Baker, Doris Young), many more friends and family members.

We all love you, Emmy, and we will meet again in Heaven.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at St. Leo Catholic Church in Omaha, Nebraska. Her burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be on Tuesday, March 3rd, 2026 from 5:00 PM- 7:00 PM at Roeder Mortuary, 2727 N. 108th St., Omaha, Nebraska. Memorials can be made to the Open Door Mission.