Mr. Schaefer, also known as our beloved Poppy, was a true family man. He had been married to his one and only true love for 46 years. Poppy’s four grandchildren were the absolute joy of his life.
Dave was an avid golfer, fisherman, and all-around sports fan. He was a best friend to so many. His circle of friends considered him the ‘life of the party’ and when he was around, everyone was sure to laugh and have a great time. He was incredibly funny, kind, loyal, and above all else, he adored his family and friends. He held rich friendships that will last well beyond his years. His impact on his family and friends is immeasurable and his legacy will live on for generations through those who are better for having known him.
He was a devoted caregiver to his parents, in-laws, aunts and uncles. He was an active member of St. Peter’s Cathedral. Dave was passionate about the March of Dimes charity.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Marcus and Irene Schaefer; father-in-law, Kenneth McCarkel; and grandson, Dylan Kernan. Poppy’s grandson in heaven, Dylan, is sure to be playing ball with his grandpa today.
Surviving are his wife, Patricia (Pat), nee McCarkel, Schaefer;
a son, Scott (Melissa) Schaefer;
a daughter, Jenny (Pat) Kernan;
and three grandchildren, Kayla Kernan, Connor Kernan and Hadley Schaefer.
We will all dearly miss our husband, father, grandfather, friend, and our Poppy.
Memorials may be made to the March of Dimes via check or directly though his personal link, www.marchforbabies.org/davidschaefer. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit with the family from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, May 7, 2017, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL. Friends may also visit from 9 to 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 9, 2017, at St. Peter’s Cathedral, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 9, 2017, at St. Peter’s Cathedral, Belleville, IL, with Msgr. John Myler officiating. Burial with military honors will be at Walnut Hill Cemetery, Belleville, IL.
Special Note: There will not be funeral services on May 8, the birthday of Dave Schaefer’s son.
Condolences Left For David Schaefer
I met Dave at Belleville Shoe. My special needs students working in the lunch room. He was so kind to us. I will always remember him as a very nice man.
Jo Ann Nadler, Swansea, Illinois , 62226
Pat and family, My deepest sympathies and prayers to you and your family for your loss.
Allen Kaisor, Smithton, Illinois, 62285
My sympathies to the family. Dave and I went to high school together and ran into each other occasionally over the years. He was always fun to talk to and was taken way to soon. Rest in peace.
Gary Gebhart, Belleville , ILL, 62223
My deepest sympathy goes out to all the Schaefer Family & all who knew & loved Dave. He was such a kind sweet person, who will be missed by all. Dave ‘s suffering is over. Hope this helps bring peace to you, Pat & family. Wayne & Christie Scher
Christie Scher, Belleville, Il, 62223
Pat,
I remember first meeting you and Dave back in high school. My deepest of sympathies in your great loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Dolores (Dee) Bayley, Swansea, IL, 62226