James J. Schaffer

I was extremely saddened to hear about Jim`s passing. He was a wonderful athletic director to all of us officials not only at West Catholic but Kent City as well. We really enjoyed coming to West Catholic and Kent City to officiate our events. He truly was a joy to see and work with as it was made more fun as he ALWAYS had a smile on his face. Rest in Peace Jim. You will be missed by all of us officials who came in contact with you.

I was so very sorry to hear of Jim's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you Mary. My time with you and Jim at Aquinas were some of my fondest memories.

What a tragedy to lose someone who was so concerned with others, especially student atheletes. I only found out about his passing last night at the wrestling meet. I knew Jim fairly well from Kent City sports and he always looked out for the kids. He was very supportive when I lost my son (12/17/05) he always had nice things to say about my boys and all the kids in the sports programs. He and your family are in my prayers and I'm sure he is getting after Wade again in Heaven. GOD Bless.

To the Schaffer family: My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. I was a student of Mr. Schaffer's at WC. His sense of humor made the days of high school enjoyable. My class voted him teacher of the year as we found a true connection with him. He seemed to understand us.
With sympathy, Theresa

Mrs. Schaffer, Both of you were inspirational teachers who impacted the lives of many of your students. Keep strong in the faith that you will be together again. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

We just heard of Jim's untimely death today. Though we have not spoken in a few years, Shirley and I are both grieved that he has passed and at his family's sorrow. We have thought and spoken of him often. He was a caring teacher, coach and athletic director of the highest ethical standards. I had the privilege to witness that as his principal. What is more he was my good and loyal friend. I know he is missed by many whose lives he touched

Favorite quotes from Schaff:

"Save it for the talent show!"
"Use the hill!"
"Use your legs!"

He'd sing to Huey Lewis on drives back from our long meets, schedule inspirational guest speakers for our end-of-season banquets, and type up split-by-split records of all our races.

He had so much patience, committment to running, and humor. Schaff was one of a kind.

We are very sorry to hear of Jim's passing.

It was a sincere pleasure to have Jim as Kent City's Athletic Director during my tenure as its superintendent. He was a very caring sincere person who always placed others before him.

Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless.

Dear Coach,
I am glad I got to know you and your family as a neighbor, running track, and as one of your students. Mr. Pibb and history; they just went together. Peace.