Ned Lance Shreffler

Shreffler Lance Shreffler - A Life Well Lived. Ned Lance Shreffler was born in Shelby, Ohio July 4, 1923 and passed quietly in Columbus, Ohio surrounded by family on December 11, 2014 at the age of 91. Family man, beloved teacher, peace activist, humanitarian, and friend, Lance Shreffler served in WWII with the Army Corps of Engineers in the European theater. Compassion, kindness and an extraordinary commitment to peace and social justice were legendary qualities exhibited throughout his life. Lance graduated from the College of Wooster in Ohio and later completed his Masters and PhD from Ohio State University. He and his wife, Marilyn lived in Clintonville for over 50 years. Lance taught at Upper Arlington High School (1952-1967) and then Ohio State University until 1979. He was a passionate drama director and debate coach at UAHS, fondly remembered by countless students for his unique ability to engage their emerging talents, such as outfitting his debate team in long trench coats, matching fedoras, and briefcases as a way of impressing the opposing teams. He also announced the UAHS football games and managed UA Pools during the summer. While at OSU, he was the Assistant Dean at University College responsible for Student Guidance and Counseling. Upon his retirement, Lance commenced his next career tirelessly working for peace and social justice. He was President of the Ohio SANE/Freeze movement. He traveled to the West Bank acting as a witness to the violence between Palestinians and Israelis. Many times his work with Pastors for Peace and Worldwide Humanitarian Aid included driving medical supplies to Central America. He was also a board member of Open Shelter and most recently was very active in The B.R.E.A.D. Organization. For over 60 years, Lance was a constant voice and member at Indianola Presbyterian Church. In 2001, the Columbus Metropolitan Area Church Council honored Lance with their Living Faith Award. In his words, "What a gift it is to be alive, to learn and know about love. This life that I have is only a beginning of what I will learn." Lance Shreffler is pre-deceased by his parents Robert and Ruth (Gadsby), his elder brothers Robert (Lolly) and Richard. He is survived by his wife and love of his life for 61 years, Marilyn (Schneider); his sister, Mary Mack; his children, Lisa Sandeen (Mark), Bruce Shreffler, and Kristina Goettler (David); eight grandchildren, many adoring nieces and nephews; and a community of cherished friends and former students. Celebration of life and memorial service will be held before spring. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made directly to B.R.E.A.D. or Indianola Presbyterian Church in Columbus.