Richard Ray Shaffer, 89, of South Haven, MI passed away peacefully on Friday, February 20th, 2026. Richard was born April 27th, 1936 to Raymond and Viola (Curtis) Shaffer in South Haven, MI.
He is survived by his sister, Nancy Zink (Don Johnston) of Allegan, MI and 4 children: Wendy (Douglas) Bolling of Neligh, NE, Stacy (Larry) Niles of Lawrence, MI, William (fiancée Jessie) Shaffer of Portage, MI, Debra (Ronald) Wall of South Haven, MI. He is also survived by 10 cherished grandchildren and 14 loved great grandchildren.
Richard was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Sandra Shaffer, father, Raymond C. Shaffer, mother, Viola Shaffer (Curtis), and brother, James Shaffer.
Richard served in the Army National Guard from 1955 to 1958 and the U.S. Army Reserve from 1955-1963. Richard met his wife, Sandy Auensen, in South Haven. They were united in marriage on July 27, 1963 in South Haven, MI.
Richard was a member of the Michigan Carpenters Union and Millwrights Local #1102 when he worked construction.
Richard was also a member of various clubs including the South Haven Moose Lodge #697, the American Legion #49, the VFW #667, the South Haven Rod and Gun Club, the Steelheaders Association and the NRA. Richard was an avid bowler, golfer and fisherman. Richard was a great hunter and accomplished several trophies but his favorite hunt was getting a large bull moose in Alaska in 2001.
He will be missed dearly by hundreds of family and friends.
A celebration of life is being planned for Richard on March 28, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at the South Haven Moose Lodge in South Haven, MI.
To those who choose to leave a memory or condolence, please visit www.starksfamilyfh.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Filbrandt Chapel-Starks Family Funeral Homes and Cremation Services. 269.637-0333.
Service Details
Service
When
March 28th, 2026 1:00pm
Where
Moose Lodge South Haven
Address
1025 E. Wells St.
South Haven , Michigan 49090