Theresa Marie Schmalz

Theresa Marie Schmalz (nee Comodeca ), age 58; beloved wife of Paul R. for 36 years; loving mother of Jennifer Schmalz and Andrew Schmalz ; devoted daughter of James and the late Sheri Comodeca (nee Hancock); cherished sister of James A. Comodeca , Christopher M. Comodeca and Lisa M. Baumgartner (Mark); daughter in law to Richard and the late Joyce Schmalz ; sister in law to Beth Ann Welker (Al , deceased), Michael (Sharon), Daniel; aunt, cousin, and friend to many.

Terri was a proud, long-time employee of Parma City Schools as a Physical Therapy Assistant. She touched the lives of hundreds of students with special needs and made a lasting impact on her students and their families. She saw the potential in every student. Terri also saw a great need for vocational training in students with disabilities and facilitated many summer job training programs at a time when vocational training was not considered to b e an integral part of student growth. She was also incredibly proud of her work in a wheelchair art program at Valley Forge High School. In addition to her work in the Parma City Schools, Terri held positions in multiple rehabilitation facilities , especially Greenbriar Healthcare Center, where she aided elderly or ailing patients with their physical difficulties. Everyone who came into contact professionally with Terri held the utmost respect for her.

In addition to devoting her life to serving others and making the world a better place for people with disabilities , Terri enjoyed cooking (usually Italian ) for her family and friends. If you were a guest in her house, she always made you eat and you never left hungry. She showed love and hospitality to everyone who walked through her door. Terri was also an avid gardener who loved to surround her home with beautiful flowers. She loved to use the fresh herbs she grew in her cooking. Terri also held a strong sense of faith  and loved to share the Word of God. She thoroughly enjoyed the stories of the Saints and prayed often.

In July 2015, Terri was diagnosed with Inflammatory Breast Cancer. It became her mission to research and spread the word about the disease she was fighting. She spent her time talking with women who were newly diagnosed and mentored them during their time of need. She truly devoted herself to making it an easier path for others in similar conditions. She wanted the world to be more informed about IBC. Terri’s family requests that all contributions be made to the IBC Network Foundation.

Come one, come all to Terri’s party! The celebration of her life will be held on Saturday November 10 th , 2018 3-5 PM at THE COMMUNITY CENTER AT RIPEPI FUNERAL HOME 5784 PEARL RD. (AT SNOW RD.)