HILLSBORO, N.D. (trfnews.i234.me) – Bill and Mary Schumacher, a grieving couple from Hillsboro, are pleading for the return of a large, handmade iron cross that was recently stolen from the grave of their son, Deon, who passed away at 24 after a battle with cancer. The cross, crafted from railroad spikes and barbed wire, was a significant part of their healing process, representing the vibrant life of their son, a passionate bull rider, country music singer, and dedicated member of the North Dakota National Guard.
The theft has left the Schumachers heartbroken and bewildered. Bill, a retired elementary principal, regularly visits Deon’s grave at St. Rose Cemetery to maintain the site. He was devastated to find the cross missing during a recent visit. “It was there, and I came out a couple of weeks later, and it was gone,” he said.
The couple has reached out through social media and local newspapers, hoping that someone with information will come forward. They ask that the cross, a cherished symbol of their son’s memory, be returned.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Hillsboro Police Department at 701-636-4441 or the Traill County Sheriff’s Office at 701-636-4510.