VISTA, CALIFORNIA – Richard D. Schaffer, age 80, died on November 12, 2024, in Vista, California, surrounded by family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Shriners Children’s Hospital in his name (www.shrinerschildrens.org).
Rich was born November 9, 1944, in Scottsbluff. He married his high school sweetheart, Sharon, with whom he recently celebrated a 60th anniversary. His work life spanned farming, owning a carpet retail store, managing farm equipment dealerships, and farm/ranch real estate appraisal, always with Sharon at his side. He was particularly proud of transforming a failing John Deere dealership into one that ranked 1st nationally.
He was an avid fisherman and hunter who enjoyed the bounty afforded by the Wyoming-Nebraska area to which he was quite attached. In past summer days, he could often be found at the lake boating with his family and brothers. He was fond of animals, particularly wildlife, dogs and horses. He and Sharon raised a spectacular garden each year, sharing what it produced with neighbors, friends and family. Rich had a steadfast faith in God and served his church and community.
He is survived by his wife Sharon Schaffer; son Troy (Allison) Schaffer with grandchildren Thomas and Erin; son Chris (Cindy) Schaffer with grandchildren Sean, Natalie, Ryan, and Maddy.
He was preceded in death by his father Alex Schaffer, mother Elsie Schaffer/Zitterkoph, brother Larry Schaffer and brother Bob Schaffer.
