John “Jack” B. Schumann, PhD, age 73, of Pittsburgh, passed away on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at UPMC Shadyside Hospital.
Jack was born on February 19, 1952 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, the son of the late John R. Schumann and Alice (Fewer) Schumann-Conway. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepfather, John J. Conway; his biological mother, Elinore M. Tramontana; and his brother, Jim Schumann. Jack is survived by his beloved wife, Maria J. Pimentel-Schumann; four children, John R. Schumann, James D. Schumann, Jenna M. Schumann, and Joen A. (wife Jennifer) Vasquez; cherished grandsons, Dominic and Lucas Vasquez; former wife, Ellen Dagon; three siblings, Diane M. (late Michael) Buckley, Linda A Tramontana, and Perry V. Tramontana; several cousins, nieces, nephews, and numerous friends and colleagues.
Jack grew up in Audubon, New Jersey, and after high school graduation, he attended Rutgers University in New Jersey receiving a bachelor’s degree in biology and a master’s degree in cell biology. He started his academic career at Gannon University in Erie, Pennsylvania and later received two PhDs from the University of Pittsburgh, one in histology and the other one in gross anatomy. He continued his teaching career for more than twenty years as Director of Medical Anatomy at Pitt Medical School. He was also the Director of Head and Neck Anatomy at the Dental School of the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Schumann, as his students called him, taught thousands of students during those years. They loved him, admired him, and honored him with hundreds of awards and recognition. Among his many cherished awards are: Pre Clinical Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching (2019), Dean’s Award for Master Education for Outstanding Achievements in Educating Future Physicians (2020), University of Pittsburgh Distinguished Service in Medical Education (2021), and Best Course Director (Medical Anatomy) as an Emeritus Professor (2023).
He had a brilliant, curious mind and a warm, generous heart. He was very knowledgeable of ancient Greek and Roman history, mythology, World War II, the Civil War, and the Italian Mafia! Always with a spark in his eye and a depth that made every conversation feel meaningful. He loved classical music, going to symphony concerts, opera, classical films, and fishing with his children and grandchildren. Jack also loved traveling, which he did quite a lot in his life. Being a lover of Mediterranean culture, his favorite countries were Italy, France and Spain. He also loved the Caribbean. Nothing brought him more joy than entertaining at his home for friends and family. He was a wonderful host – thoughtful, welcoming, and full of life – especially during the holidays, when his table was filled with laughter, music, and the smells of his favorite gourmet international dishes. His love of history and culture was matched only by his love of sharing it, and every gathering reflected how much he cared.
Family and friends are invited to a memorial service on Saturday, November 15, 2025 (times to be announced) in Heinz Memorial Chapel located on the campus of the University of Pittsburgh, South Bellefield Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213. In lieu of flowers, his family would like you to consider memorial contributions to the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center to benefit cancer research by visiting www.hillman.upmc.com/difference/supporting/make-a-gift or UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, c/o UPMC Cancer Pavilion, Suite 1B, 5150 Center Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15232. Arrangements entrusted to Jobe Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 445 Beatty Road, Monroeville, PA 412-856-4747. www.jobefuneralhome.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John “Jack” B. Schumann, PhD, please visit our floral store.