Paul R. “Dick” Schaefer

Paul R. “Dick” Schaefer

February 25, 1947 – October 8, 2020

 

Paul Richard “Dick” Schaefer was one of three children born to Paul E. and Virginia Schaefer.  Dick was born on February 25, 1947.  He attended St. Pius and St. Bernard’s Grade Schools and graduated from Benson High School, Class of 1965.  After high school, he served as a medic in the Army Reserves.

Dick and Betty met at Sandy’s Escape in Omaha, Nebraska in 1968.  On November 8, 1969, he was united in marriage with Betty Knott at St. Bernard’s Church.

Dick started his career at Baker’s Supermarket as a sacker at age 14.  He kept going in after school each day asking for a job.  They finally got tired of him bugging them, so they just decided to hire him to make him stop.  In his 50-year career, he worked at nearly every location in town.  He moved up the ranks from sacker to store director.  He really enjoyed his job and was happy to go to work each day.

Over the years, Dick and Betty had three children: Kerri, Jill, and Scott.  Life would be forever changed.  He was a hands-on Dad who was always happy and smiling.

In his leisure time, Dick enjoyed boating, skiing, and attending his children’s activities.  He spent a lot of time out by the pool that he put in when the kids were young.  He saw the pool as a way to have some good family fun.  If we ever couldn’t find him, we would head straight to the pool.  It was his happy place.  Another activity that brought him joy was cruising around in his 1967 Chevy Impala Super Sport convertible.  When you thought of Dick, you pictured him in that car.

When the grandchildren came along, even more great family memories were made.  Sarah, Carter, Carson, Jared, Hayden, Jack, Maggie, and Millie were the apples of his eye.  He enjoyed watching them and would double over giggling, often wiping away happy tears from his eyes at some of the things that they did or said.

Once Dick and Betty retired, they had more time to travel and enjoy life together.  They celebrated their golden anniversary of 50 years of marriage with a family vacation with all of the kids and grandkids at Lake Okoboji.

Many fun times were shared with Dick’s long-time friends over the years.  They enjoyed each other’s company, shared stories, and looked forward to their weekly breakfasts and lunches.

Dick definitely enjoyed life, was always upbeat, and enjoyed being around people.  He had a laugh that was contagious, and he will be truly missed.  He will remain in our hearts forever.

Preceded in death by parents, Paul E. and Virginia Schaefer; stepfather, Jack Richter; grandson, Tyson Peters; sister, Judi Aten and husband, Duane.

Survived by wife, Betty; children: Kerri Betts (Ron), Jill Peters (Matt), and Scott Schaefer (Brandi); grandchildren: Sarah, Carter, Carson, Jared, Hayden, Jack, Maggie, and Millie; brother, Todd Schaefer (Valerie); brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; cousins, nieces and nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, and many friends.

VISITATION observing CDC guidelines.  The family will receive friends Tuesday, October 13th from 5pm to 7pm at the West Center Chapel, followed by a VIGIL SERVICE at 7:00pm.  MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: Wednesday, October 14th at 10:30am at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, 15353 Pacific Street.  Interment, Calvary Cemetery.  Memorials may be directed to the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation.

 

 

6 Comments

  • Morgan & Laura Whale Posted October 10, 2020 5:47 pm

    We are sad & so very sorry to lose our longtime. WONDERFUL neighbor. Much love to the Schaefer family.

  • Rod & Kim Hirchert Posted October 12, 2020 5:13 pm

    We are so very sorry to hear of Dick’s passing. Our deepest sympathy and prayers to you all.

  • Joe & Shirley Hahn Posted October 13, 2020 7:55 am

    Dear Betty and family, our condolences to you and your family. Memories of Dick will last a lifetime, May Dick rest in peace with the Lord.

  • Kay Barlow Posted October 13, 2020 8:58 am

    My condolences, love, and support to the Schaefer family.. Dick was loved and will be missed by all who knew him.

  • Ashley Sempek Posted October 13, 2020 10:48 pm

    My father and I were so sorry of hearing of Dicks passing. My father (mark Terwey) worked with Dick at Bakers, and I crossed paths with him while managing the pool store he shopped in. Dick was so instrumental in my promotion. He was always an amazing mentor to my father. My fathers and I’s prayers and thoughts are with Betty and the family

  • Beverly Allen Zylstra Posted October 20, 2020 3:22 pm

    Betty and family – Just learned of Dick’s passing. So very sorry. Keep your memories close to your heart and he will always be with you. Thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

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