Romaine Schaan

The family of Romaine Anthony Schaan announces his passing on Sunday, January 27, 2019 at the age of 70, after a courageous 2 year battle with cancer. Romaine was born on August 15, 1948 in Rugby, ND to Vincent and Elizabeth (Merck) Schaan. He attended school in Richardton, ND at Assumption Abbey High School, before returning to Balta, ND and graduating in 1966. He enlisted in the U.S. Marines in 1966, serving in Okinawa, during the Vietnam Era. He was discharged in 1969. He later attended and graduated from Minot State University in 1987 with a degree of Bachelor of Science in Education. Romaine had many jobs over his life, including social work and teaching in New Jersey, and custodial work in North Dakota. His last few years he took great pride in volunteering for Meals on Wheels and Bethany Retirement Living. He was an active member of AA in Fargo and attended St. Francis Catholic Church in Moorhead, MN. Romaine had many struggles in this life; however, he kept his witty, dry sense of humor and always had a joke ready. He had the biggest heart and he was a giver. He always remembered his many nieces’ and nephews’ birthdays and milestones. He was known for playing the guitar and writing his own songs, including a song for his brother’s wedding. Growing up he competed in wrestling, track, and football during his years at Assumption Abbey High School. He remained an avid sports fan, with a special love for the New York Yankees and the Green Bay Packers. Romaine had many friendships over his lifetime. He especially enjoyed these friendships with his AA group and looked forward to their dinners on Tuesday evenings. Romaine is survived by his brothers and sister: Roland of Langdon, Richard (Sandy) of Langdon, Reynold (Debbie) of Fargo, Charlotte (David) Brandt of Bismarck, Randall of Langdon, Robert of Langdon, Vincent of Grand Forks, Kenneth (ManaRae) of Oakdale, MN, and many nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews. Romaine was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Colette; grandparents, Felix and Mary (Meyer) Merck; and Matthew and Stephania (Hoffart) Schaan. Romaine’s family will be forever grateful for the care he received at Villa Maria and Hospice of the Red River Valley. There will be a rosary from 10-10:30 AM with a visitation from 10:30-11:00 AM and a Memorial Mass at 11:00 AM on Saturday, February 9, 2019 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Moorhead, MN.