Larry J Schafer

Larry J. Schafer, 83, of Vermilion, died Tuesday, August 2, 2016 at his home after a lengthy illness. He was born June 12, 1933 in Elyria and had been a Vermilion resident for the past 70 years wintering in Punta Gorda, FL. Larry graduated from the Vermilion High School Class of 1951. He was a veteran of the US Navy serving during the Korean War. Larry worked as a power tool repairman in the maintenance department at Ford Motor Co., Lorain for 39 years, retiring in 1997. He was a member of the Vermilion United Church of Christ Congregational, a 51 year member of the Masons Ely Lodge #424; past District Commander and Commander of AMVETS Post #22; American Legion Post 103, Punta Gorda; and DESA. He enjoyed woodworking, golfing, CB radios, and was a master at tinkering. Larry was the king of sarcasm and always had a funny story to tell. He was known to drink a good bourbon and enjoyed a great meal, especially with his family. He was even planning his anniversary dinner this Saturday at Carrabbas. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Celia (nee Hawley) Schafer of Vermilion; daughters, Lee Anne (Kenneth) Eshom of Cottage Grove, MN, Melissa (Paul) Triplett of Vermilion, and Kara (Paul) Odom of Amherst; grandchildren, Erik and Greg Eshom, Erin, Emily and Josiah Triplett, and Taylor Odom; great granddaughters, Audrey, McKenna, Elia, Madelyn, Gianna, and Sophia; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, E. Lynn and Helen (nee Bennett) Schafer, son, Erik L. Schafer, grandson, Elijah; and sisters, Helen Francis McKean and Lynette Schafer. The family will receive friends on Sunday, August 7, 2016, from 2:00 pm until the time of a memorial service at 4:00 pm. The Vermilion Veterans Council will present military honors and a Masonic service will take place prior to the memorial service led by Pastor Josh Budka. The family suggests memorial contributions to Mercy New Life Hospice, 3500 Kolbe Road, Lorain, OH 44053. Online condolences may be made at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.