Wesley Dewey Schafer

With sad eyes and heavy hearts we announce that Wesley Dewey Schafer, 104 years old, of Griffith Indiana, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2026 with his son,Terry, by his bedside.

Wesley was born in Rensselaer , Indiana to parents Raymond Schafer and Irene Schafer (nee Koss) on February 16, 1922 . He attended several public schools and studied electronics for one year at Dartmouth and one year at Yale Universities during his 7 years in the Navy. He was a Gunner’s Mate on the USS New Mexico and several other ships as he served proudly during World War II. After the war he met and married Elna Arlene Aumiller on August 19th, 1949. They partnered in life for 76 years.

Wesley worked in the service departments of several car dealerships, first as a technician, then a service writer and advancing to department management. Beyond his career he had many interests including bowling, golfing, woodworking and building an addition to his first house. He was interested in science and natural history visiting the Chicago museums and Brookfield Zoo with the family. His ultimate passion was his family. Wesley felt that devotion to his wife and providing for his children was his mission in life.

He was survived as a loving father by: daughter Marcia O’Halloran of Griffith, sons Terry Schafer( Angie) of Schererville, Rick (Maxine) Schafer of Grand Junction, CO . He was a proud, devoted grandfather to Darren (Judi) Serhal of Valparaiso, Chris O’Halloran of Whitby, New Zealand,  Melissa (Ron)White of Antioch, California,  Robbie Phillips of California, Robin Phillips of Lake Station, Brendon ( Breigh) Schafer of Ooltewah, Tennessee , Tegan Schafer of Rochester, New Hampshire, Liz(Brian)Terborg Sporrer, Michael Donellon, San Diego , California, Sandy Hazzard of Colorado. And Great-grandfather to Chloe Kwasny(fiancé Kurt Lajcin),Tristan O’Halloran and Thom O’Halloran of Whitby, New Zealand, Smantha Long of Chicago. Ryan and Andrew Powers and their father Ryan Powers all of Muncie Indiana, Alice Jayne Schafer of Ooltewah, Tennessee. Daughters in law Diane Schafer of Lake Station and Mary Schafer of Ooltewah Tennessee and his family of caregivers that he affectionately referred to as “ My girls “ who lovingly cared for him.

He was preceded in death by: his beloved wife of 76 years, Arlene Schafer age 99, who adored and supported  him through all of his endeavors and their adventures together.  She lovingly
cared for him in her final years, His eldest son Michael E (Michiko) Solan, granddaughter Julia Powers , brothers-in-law Morris (Nelly)Tunis ,Clarence (Marge)Tunis, Hank Aumiller, Audry(Shirley) Aumiller, Dee(Verma)Aumiller, Lee(Betty)Aumiller and beloved niece and nephews.

His goal in life was to raise a family and enjoy life after retirement with his beloved wife, Arlene. He accomplished both. Good night Dad.

Cremation was performed by Hillside Funeral Home.  Private service at a later date

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