William Edward Schafer Jr.

William Edward Schafer, Jr. December 28, 1936 – November 23, 2018 Bill was born December 28, 1936, the son of Wilma (Berg) and William Edward Schafer, Sr. Bill grew up in the Oakwood Neighborhood in Kalamazoo. He graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School. Growing up he spent many summers on his Uncle Bill’s farm in Hopkins where his love of farming began. He served honorably as a United States Marine from 1955-1959. While he never spoke of his service at length, one could tell he was proud to have served. “If the Army and Navy ever look on Heaven’s scenes, they will find the streets are guarded by United States Marines.” After serving, Bill went to work at the Lake Street Lumber Company in Kalamazoo with his brother-in-law Andy. This adventure brought about the creation of Stevens and Schafer Builders. Bill moved his family to the Gobles area in the early 1970’s. Bill worked for many years as a papermaker, first with KVP Sutherland, then with Brown Company, moving on to James River before retiring from the Crown Vantage Corporation. For many years he operated a small family farm, where he raised and sold hay and asparagus. He and his boys also raised cows and had horses, donkeys and goats on his farm. Bill always had a basset hound. He raised three sons on his farm teaching them the values of hard work. Bill was an avid fan and supporter of the Gobles Tigers. He was a founding member of the Back-Row Coaches Association. After retiring he loved to travel in his RV. One of his favorite destinations was Alaska. He also loved to go camping with his family every chance that he could. His favorite place to go and relax was at the family Cottage on Wilkinson Lake. Bill passed away on November 23, 2018 after a short but vigorous fight against brain cancer. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Beverly (Stevens); his three sons, Wes (Carlos) Schafer, Thad (Ruth) Schafer and Lon (Kim) Schafer; his sister, Mingo Decker; a great grandchild; many grandchildren; nieces; nephews; and his loyal basset hound, Copper Pot. Bill was preceded in death by his infant son, Chet; his parents; his sisters, Eva Mitchell and Erma Verburg; and his brothers-in-law, Andy Stevens and Bob Decker. According to his wishes he will be cremated and there will be no service. As a memorial to Bill, donations may be directed to the Eric Hartwell Foundation, 3154 Skyview Court, Brighton, MI, 48114; Wings of Hope Hospice, 330 Linn Street, Allegan, MI, 49010 or a charity of your choice. The family would like to thank the Staff of the West Michigan Cancer Center for their treatment of Bill. In addition, the family would like to thank Wings of Hope Hospice for the respect and dignity given to Bill and their efforts to keep him comfortable during the final days of his journey.

William Edward Schafer Jr.

December 28, 1936 - November 23, 2018