Marie Rose (Franco) Shafer

Marie Rose (Franco) Shafer

July 9, 1926 – April 5, 2021

Died peacefully at her home with her daughters by her side at the age of 94.  Her parents, John and Lena Franco, immigrated from Italy and had four daughters: Lucille, Marie, Joann, and Dolores.

After graduating from Central High School, Marie earned her Bachelor of Science in Education Degree in 1949 from the University of Omaha.  She then taught elementary school at various Omaha Public Schools for fourteen years.

On June 17, 1950, she married Don Cameron Shafer. They were married a little over 61 years until his death on November 14, 2011. They had three daughters: Regina, Rebecca, and Cynthia.

In 1964, Don and Marie opened the family owned and operated printing company, Don Shafer Display, Incorporated.  All three of their daughters were involved with the company throughout the years.  As a passionate businesswoman, Marie was still President up until her death.

Marie volunteered for the Arthritis Foundation, Madonna School, and Methodist Hospital for many years, as well as Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo for almost 50 years.  She had a strong faith in God and instilled that in her daily life.  This faith led her to take Sister Mary Evangeline, the foundress of the Madonna School, to Medugorje in Bosnia—an unofficial place of Catholic pilgrimage.  Marie had a love for Nebraska Husker football and attended many games throughout her life.  A lifelong avid bowler until the age of 90 with a 234 game, at times she bowled on three leagues a week.

She and Don traveled the world up until his death in 2011.  Marie continued to travel as often as possible with family and friends.  She was often referred to as the Energizer Bunny as she always had a full day planned.

Marie had a strong sense of tradition, hosting family get togethers, holidays, entertaining friends, and having dinner parties.  She always saw the best in people; she could see their potential and had the courage to tell someone if they weren’t living up to it.

Marie was preceded in death by her husband, Don C. Shafer; sisters, Lucille Mullin and Joann Bradley.  She is survived by daughters: Regina M. Beisch, Rebecca A. Kalisek (Keith), and Cynthia Shafer-Stern (John); sister, Dolores Carlisle; eight grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren.

MEMORIAL MASS: Wednesday, April 28^th at 10:30 am at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, 6116 Dodge Street.  Private Inurnment at Resurrection Mausoleum.

To view live broadcasts of the Memorial Mass and Graveside Service, please go to www.heafeyheafey.com and click on the “View Live Cast” button on our home page or www.smmomaha.org.