After Losing Mother To COVID-19, Sarasota Woman Hosts Bridge Walk

SARASOTA, FL — Like many who lost a loved one during the coronavirus pandemic, Michele Tanner and her family were never able to host a funeral to honor her mother, Marilyn Schopp.

Her mother, a successful Realtor and former restaurant owner, died April 25, 2020 from COVID-19 while staying at an Ohio rehab facility for other health issues. She was 75.

Schopp had a lung transplant in 2005, so her daughter knew that if she contracted the virus “it would be a tough thing for her,” Tanner said.

Her death came early in the pandemic, a time when many people were reluctant or unwilling to travel out of fear of the spreading virus. Many states, counties and cities had restrictions on travel and gatherings, as well.

“So, we never did have a funeral or celebration of life. We never got to say goodbye,” Tanner said.

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More than a year since the pandemic’s start, people still hesitate when it comes to traveling, she said. The Sarasota resident hopes to eventually host a celebration of life for Schopp in their hometown, Alliance, Ohio.

“I definitely want to honor her at some point, when we can,” she said. “I just don’t know when that will happen.”

In the meantime, Tanner plans to mark the one-year anniversary of her mother’s death with a walk across Ringling Bridge Sunday morning.

She had her last conversation with her mother while walking over the bridge last April, so it’s a fitting tribute, she said.

At first, she planned to walk the bridge with just a few close friends and her 8-year-old daughter by her side. Then, she realized others who have lost friends and family to COVID-19 might also need an outlet for their grief and decided to invite anyone who might benefit from the tribute. She’s shared the informal walk on social media and as a Patch Neighbor Post.

All are welcome Sunday, Tanner said. “I just hit the share button. I’m sure there are other people in similar situations.”

She added, “I feel everyone coming together to commemorate lives lost due to COVID will help with all the grieving we’ve endured collectively.”

The group will meet at the Ringling Bridge at 8:30 a.m. Sunday. Those interested in joining Tanner should text her at 941-894-5603.