PAUL D. SCHAFER
Paul D. Schafer, 87, of Bethesda, OH, passed away Sunday, January 10, 2021, at Emerald Pointe Nursing and Rehab. He was born in Hunter, OH, on June 15, 1933, to Franklin and Mary Davies Schafer. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by Mary Ellen. his loving wife of 41 years; his daughter, Cynthia Artrip; his sisters, Margaret Perkins and Wilma Thompson; his brothers, Warren and Jack Schafer.
Paul, a man of many talents, retired from the Ohio Department of Transportation where he worked as a maintenance and construction supervisor. He was also employed by Cloverland Dairy and Sunshine Biscuit Company. Paul was a veteran of the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was the commander of the American Legion Post 312, served as the Bethesda Fire Chief in 1964, was a 62 year member and past master of the Hazen Masonic Lodge #251, member and past president of the Bethesda-Belmont-Morristown Rotary Club and was a former member of the Board of Trustees of Bethesda Methodist Church. Paul was also a proud member of the Belmont County Republican Party.
He exemplified a life well lived, which was apparent to all who knew him. He loved watching his grandchildren play sports and was an avid Union Local Jets fan.
Paul will be missed by his sons, David (Teresa) Schafer of Bethesda, OH, and Doug (Elaine)Schafer of Belmont, OH; son-in-law, Bill Artrip, Bethesda, OH; his nine grandchildren, Chad (Sara) Artrip, Jeremy (Andrea) Schafer, Justin (Karla) Schafer, Alison (Paul) Ricca, Lacy (Derek) Gallagher, Alex (Jessica) Schafer, Lindsay Schafer, Carly (Joe) Stephen, Madison Schafer; and 19 great-grandchildren.
Due to the uncertainty during the COVID pandemic, a Graveside Service for Paul will be held on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at 1 p.m. at Ebenezer Cemetery, Bethesda. The Rev. Tom Detling will be officiating.
The family is planning a “Celebration of Life” to honor Paul later this summer.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests, memorial contribution may be made to the Bethesda United Methodist Church, 233 N. Main St., Bethesda, OH 43719 or Bethesda Epworth Park, P.O. Box 374, Bethesda, OH 43719.
Patron Funeral Homes & Crematory Kelly Kemp Braido was honored in assisting the Schafer family during this tender time and was entrusted with Paul’s care. To send prayers, share memories, and express condolences, please visit: patronfuneralhomesandcrematory.com.