Martinette Sister Schappler

Schappler, Sister Martinette (Mary Anna), 88, was born October 2, 1923, in Springfield, MO, to Martin and Justina (Ruhlman) Schappler and entered eternal life May 1, 2012 in Marian Hall at Mt. St. Mary Convent in Wichita KS. She graduated from Mt. St. Scholastica Academy in Atchison, KS and began her college education there as well. In 1943, Sr. Martinette entered the Congregation of St. Joseph in Wichita and subsequently began a sixteen year teaching career in Wichita diocesan schools and Sunnyvale California. This was followed by one year at St. Joseph Childrens Home in Oklahoma City, OK. Her graduate degree in social work was earned at St. Louis University and a second career in Social Work was begun. After founding the Dept. of Social Work at St. Joseph Hospital in Wichita, she continued this work at hospitals in Del Norte, CO, Halstead, KS, Pittsburg, KS, and Lourdes Rehabilitation Hospital in Wichita. From 1972-1980 she served the congregation as a member of the General Council. Upon retiring from active ministry in 1996, she moved to Mt. St. Mary Convent in Wichita and resided there until her death. In addition to members of her religious community, Sister Martinette is survived by two brothers, Rev. Norbert Schappler, OSB, Conception Abbey, Conception, MO, John Schappler, of Nashua, NH, one sister, Justina Clemens of Indian Wells, CA, and numerous nieces and nephews. The wake service was Wednesday, May 2, 7:00 p.m. and the Mass of Christian Burial, Thursday, May 3, 10:30 a.m., both at the Wichita Center of the Congregation of St. Joseph, 3700 E. Lincoln. Memorial contributions may be made to Sisters of St. Joseph Dear Neighbor Ministries, Inc., 3700 E. Lincoln, Wichita, KS 67218.