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J. Schaeffer Obituary
A private burial will take place for Mark Schaeffer who died peacefully at Aegis of Aptos on August 30, 2011. Born in Dayton, Ohio, he was 83 years old. Mark moved to the Santa Cruz area 46 years ago and for 35 years, was employed as the Financial Controller in the business and finance department of University of California Santa Cruz. He earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Montana and his graduate degree from the University of California Los Angeles.
Mark served his country in the US Marine Corps during World War II. He was always very proud of his service particularly a special assignment to be an Honor Guard at the first United Nations meeting in New York City. He continued to serve his community through many organizations including the Santa Cruz Rotary Club and the United Way, where he volunteered for many years. He was a member of the Santa Cruz Housing Authority Board for 25 years and was chosen chairman several times. He was a founding director of the Santa Cruz GALS Softball League where he helped his own daughters become accomplished athletes, as well as countless other young women. He loved baseball and was an avid fan of the Cincinnati Reds. He was a supportive and proud father, and cherished his time and involvement in the lives of his daughters and subsequently their families.
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Shannon Schaeffer of Santa Cruz, his three daughters and sons in-law, Tiffany and Michael McMurdie of Pleasanton, Shauna and John Horton of Soquel, and Colleen and J.R. Cummings of Heber City, Utah. He also leaves his eight beloved grandchildren: Sydney, Matthew, Hannah, Joshua, Nicholas, Wyatt, Nash and Kash.
Mark will be sorely missed and lovingly remembered by the many people whose lives he touched, helped, and guided during his lifetime.
He will be buried in a private ceremony with military honors at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, California. Remembrances in Mark's name may be made to your favorite charity. If you would like share your thoughts and condolences with his family, please visit www.pacificgardenschapel.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for J. Schaeffer
6 Entries
Alan and Kathy Holyoak
September 7, 2011
Dear Shannon and family,
We are so sorry to hear of Mark's passing. Please accept our condolences at this difficult time. Mark truly made a difference to those who knew him.
May the Lord watch over and comfort you.
Jean & Ray Berryessa
September 7, 2011
Dear Shannon and family our hearts go out to you in this time of sadness. Treasure all the good times and memories shared over the years. I know that Mark will be missed by all of you. His contrubution to our community and his service to his country was something for all you you to proud of. Know that Ray I and family have you in our thoughts. Jean Berryessa
Kathrine and Alan Holyoak
September 7, 2011
Shannon and Family-
Your family stands out among our Santa Cruz friendships. Your loss is our loss. May you find joy in the memories of his life well lived. Know of our continued thoughts and support. You are loved.
Robert Wrathall
September 6, 2011
Shannon and family,
Mark was a truly sweet spirit. We enjoyed his company.
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September 5, 2011
Dear Shannon,Coleen and Family: I was so saddened to hear of Mark's passing.I have very fond memories of him when Britney and I stayed in your home. I know of his goodness and the love he shared with you all. May you be blessedd with peace at this time. Darla Barlow
Abby Tromblee
September 4, 2011
Leadership is solving problems. The day soldiers stop bringing you their problems is the day you have stopped leading them. They have either lost confidence that you can help or concluded you do not care. Either case is a failure of leadership.
Colin Powell
Mark understood leadership and led with skill and compassion. He was a good man, had great humor and was respected by everyone. We will miss you, Mark.
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