Gerald “Gary” M. Schaffer

Gerald “Gary” M. Schaffer, 82, passed away Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024, at his Holcombe home, surrounded by his loving sons, under the tender care of St. Croix Hospice.

Gary was born Sept. 28, 1942, in Colby, the son of Lester and Norma (Lube) Schaffer.

He graduated from Colby High School.

Gary was a proud veteran, who served in the United States Army 82nd Airborne Division.

He worked at Liberty Homes, as a divisional sales manager, for many years.

Gary was united in marriage to Judith King, March 19, 1966, in Medicine Lake, Minn. Their union blessed them with three sons: Shawn, Adam and Nicholas. Together, Gary and Judy enjoyed their lake home in Holcombe, for many years. She preceded him in death in 2003.

After retiring, he enjoyed tending to his gardens, hunting, fishing and shaking dice with his friends. Throughout his life, Gary was an avid outdoorsman, a cribbage player and a Green Bay Packers fan.

Gary loved spending time with his dearest black lab, Smokey. Above all, Gary loved and adored his family, and cherished the time they spent together.

His legacy lives on, through his sons – Shawn (Irina) Schaffer, Adam (Jennifer) Schaffer and Nicholas (Paige) Schaffer; seven grandchildren – Josie Schaffer, Jaxson Schaffer, Blakelyn Schaffer, Tristen Wojcik, Leah Wojcik, Amber Meszaros and Liz Schaffer; two great-grandchildren – Corrine Schaffer and Forest Schaffer.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife – Judith; siblings – Gayle Hansen and Mark “Butch” Schaffer; and his black lab – Smokey.

A private family service will be held. Maurina- Schilling Funeral Home in Abbotsford, is entrusted with the arrangements.

Family and friends may express condolences online, at maurinaschilling.com.