Michael Schumacher, a talented author from Wisconsin, has passed away at 75. His daughter, Emily Joy Schumacher, confirmed he died on December 29 but did not share the cause.
Schumacher was known for his captivating biographies, including Francis Ford Coppola: A Filmmaker’s Life and Crossroads: The Life and Music of Eric Clapton. He also penned Dharma Lion, a biography of poet Allen Ginsberg, as well as works about basketball legend George Mikan and comic book pioneer Will Eisner.
Originally from Kansas, Schumacher spent most of his life in Kenosha, Wisconsin. He studied political science at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside but left just one credit short of graduating. However, he was passionate about writing from a young age, and he built two distinct careers—one centered on biographies and another focused on the intriguing stories of the Great Lakes.
Living near Lake Michigan, Schumacher wrote about significant maritime events, like the 1975 sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald and a devastating storm in 1913 that took over 250 sailors’ lives. His love for history and storytelling left a lasting mark on those who read his work.
Emily described her father as “a history person” who cherished connections. He often worked longhand, scribbling notes in flip notebooks before typing them up. She fondly recalls his presence, coffee in hand, always ready for a conversation.
Historically, the Great Lakes have been both a source of beauty and danger, with a rich lore that Schumacher dedicated himself to exploring. His contributions are a reminder of the stories embedded in our landscapes.
As we reflect on Schumacher’s legacy, it’s clear his passion for storytelling resonated beyond the page, inspiring others to appreciate the intricate histories of the world around them.
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Celebrity, Books and literature, Nonfiction, Entertainment, U.S. news, General news, Article, 128919939
