After a courageous 15 year battle with multiple types of cancer, Vic Schafer passed away on March 9, 2025 surrounded by those that loved him. He was born in Des Moines, Iowa on July 19, 1947 to Pauline and Victor Robert Schafer Sr. A few years later, their family grew with the addition of his younger brother, Craig. Vic grew up playing many sports, including golf, football, swimming, and tennis. He was very active in Boy Scouts, earning the rank of Eagle Scout.

Vic was ever the romantic. When he was only 15 he asked a 13 year-old girl to “go steady.” Staying true to his word, 8 years later he married that girl. Vic married Kathy (Krantz) Schafer on July 11, 1970 in Des Moines, Iowa. Every year they celebrated both their “going steady” and wedding anniversary dates. In the intervening years he attended college (University of Iowa and Grandview College) and served in the Army. In Viet Nam he served in the ¾ Cavalry, now using tanks rather than horses, as a loader and later a tank driver.

Vic and Kathy had one daughter, Melissa, who lives in Scottsdale, AZ with her husband Tom. His two grandchildren, Meghan and Ryan, brought him great joy and pride in watching them grow into intelligent and thoughtful adults. He spent many years being their biggest cheerleader and supporter at dance competitions, baseball games, plays, robotics competitions, and wrestling tournaments. Vic was able to see Meghan complete a master’s degree in civil engineering and marry Nathan Wilson in November 2025 and Ryan graduate from high school and attend ASU (currently a Jr studying Business Law.)

Vic enjoyed attending touring Broadway productions, sporting events, and concerts. He also was an avid traveler, including domestic and international destinations. Some of his favorite locations included Hawaii, New York City, Disneyland (many times!), France, England, Portugal, and Italy. Many of these trips he and Kathy shared with their family, creating amazing memories and photos that will be cherished.

Live Stream Link: https://vimeo.com/event/4990023

Recorded Video Link: https://vimeo.com/1065638081