Eugene "Gene" Henry Schafer, 98, of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, peacefully passed into heaven on January 6, 2018, while embraced by his devoted wife of 75 years. This dedicated patriot, patriarch, and mentor was born on January 12, 1919, to Albert and Clara (Frantz) Schafer of Owen, Wisconsin. He is preceded in death by five loving and supportive siblings. Gene married Pearl Anne Hansen from Withee, Wisconsin, on May 29, 1942, in Champaign, IL. He was delighted to celebrate their diamond anniversary this past spring in the company of many friends and relatives. Gene loved his country and proved it by serving in the Civilian Conservation Corps, Army Air Corp, and United States Air Force from 1938 to 1970. He retired as a Chief Master Sergeant and was proud to have defended his country through three conflicts; WWII, the Korean War and Vietnam. His responsibilities related to the maintenance and innovation of aircraft which sometimes involved creative solutions by him when parts were not available. He slept on the tarmac at Wattisham, England, during D-Day waiting for his pilots return from the initiative with "his" airplanes. His service was rewarded with two commendations, a bronze star, and a nomination for First In Service to the President in 1969. Subsequent to retirement, he worked for the Holiday Inn and Sacred Heart Hospital in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Family who preceded Gene in death were his brother, Percy; four sisters, Eula, Winifred, Alice and Anita; son, Eric; and grandson, Kevin. He is survived by his wife, Pearl; children, Sharron (Ken) Howland, Glenn Schafer, and Bruce (Ruth) Schafer; grandchildren, Dawn (Randy) Dawsey, Ramona (Bill) Jefferson, and Christopher Schafer; great-grandchildren, David Strey, Jennifer (Mat) Martel, Danielle (John) Jackson, Jay C. Belch; two great-great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Gene was a lifelong Green Bay Packer fan and enjoyed every game, win or lose. He never lost faith they would recover from a loss. His favorite recreational activities were fishing and he was an accomplished woodworker who enjoyed sharing his craft with family and friends. A celebration of his exemplary life will be held on his birthday, January 12, 2018, at Hope Lutheran Church, 2226 Eddy Lane, Eau Claire. Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. A private family burial will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations should be made to Hope Lutheran Church.

Service Information

Visitation

Friday, January 12 2018 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Hope Lutheran Church 2226 Eddy Lane Eau Claire WI 54703

Memorial Service

Friday, January 12 2018 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Hope Lutheran Church 2226 Eddy Lane Eau Claire WI 54703