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BORN
1942
DIED
2018
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Michael Schafer Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Michael Schafer
LEO Mitchell
November 27, 2023
Im shocked I just heard on November 26 2023 of His passing my first visit with Dr Michael Shafer was in 1981 I was diagnosed with Scoliosis border line for Surgery at 13
I didn't want to wear the brace at that time in 1981 the brace could not be hidden with clothing I wanted to do the surgery the brace was from the neck to the hips made out of metal bars front & back and thick plastic it had to be on for 23 hours & one hour to take shower & exercise Dr. Michael did not teat me as a child He explained all the dangers in a Surgery and how we can do physical therapy and the brace without any surgery so that's what we decided to do 2 years of the brace and 3 years of physical therapy and exercise my spine went from 38 degrees to 21 degree
I truly thank God for Dr. Michael Schafer In 2001 my son was born with severe Scoliosis my sons spine locked like the letter S at about 3 month-old other Dr's wanted to brace him right away and said he would need many sugery's so I was surprised to find out Dr Michael Schafer was still at Childrens Hospital so i made an appointment with Dr Michael Schafer
He told us let's just x-ray every 3 months and see how He's doing when he starts to walk it seemed as the the Scoliosis was getting worse until my son Elijah Tan turned 11 months old his spine went completely straight no brace therapy or special exercise just all by itself with a lot of prayer Thank to Glory to God Almighty & Thanks to Dr. Michael Schafer my son in December will be 22 years old without any back problems I'm now 55 yeas old with no back pain or back problems my condolences to all His family may the Lord mend there Broken hearts He was best Dr. I ever had
Alan Sanders
August 27, 2021
I am 62 years old and a partial paraplegic. In 1977 I had a severe spinal cord injury and Dr. Mike saved my life. I have always and forever will be grateful. Rest in peace my friend.
Anonymous
April 30, 2021
Dr. Schafer was a wonderful physician and a very caring, humble person. I feel fortunate to have known him. After seeing many other specialists I knew I would be in the best hands with him. I was in touch with him again through his nurse many years ago. I'm sure I wasn't the only one still in contact, and I'm glad he realized he was still being thought of and appreciated. I am quite grateful to him still. My best wishes to his family.
Yvonne Lugo
October 13, 2020
2 YEARS LATER......it’s still hard to believe that this wonderful man and doctor is no longer with us! May GOD continue to comfort and keep watch over the Schafer Family and bless you all with His good and perfect peace that surpasses all understanding. May it always bring you at least SOME comfort and peace to know that Dr. Schafer was a blessing to so many people. He was greatly loved and appreciated; and not just because he was an outstanding and excellent physician, but also because he was a caring, compassionate, kind and beautiful soul! I have no doubt that Dr. Michael Schafer will always be missed, but never forgotten. It puts a smile on my face and in my heart to know that he is with our LORD JESUS CHRIST forevermore!!!
Jerry Jochims
September 10, 2019
Good friend and Medical School classmate from 1963-67. I consulted him for my disc space infection in 1983 and his advice was spot on! He advised patience and time!!
He called to check on my progress twice and was always concerned about my outcome. I practiced in Burlington, IA, and he was busy in Chicago but he sounded like we were still med school classmates. He never hesitated to reassure me. Had a great conversation with him at one reunion several years ago. His loss is felt by many. My condolences, belatedly to his wife and family.
Tom Floyd
February 21, 2019
I was deeply saddened to recently learn of the passing of Dr. Schafer. My wife and I think of him often. I met him on a recommendation to evaluate a problem with my back. He did everything he could to keep me out of the operating room. A true patient's doctor. I asked him when he might decide if I needed surgery and his answer was You will tell me. I am forever indebted to him for his fine work 10 years ago. I did get a good laugh out of him when I came for my first appointment for surgery follow up. I had one of the huge molded plastic body braces after my spinal fusion. My son had decorated it with about 20 small Notre Dame leprechaun decals and Dr. Schafer cracked up the moment he saw it. You are a very fortunate family to have been able to share your lives with such an honorable gentleman. May he Rest In Peace.
Steve Weinberg
January 31, 2019
I was not one of Michael's patients. In fact, I knew him long before he was a doctor. We met his first day on campus at the University of Iowa. His dad, Ham, was with him, and Ham taught me how to shine my shoes. We stated medical school together and spent the entire first year as "cadaver mates". We got to know each other well. When Michael returned from summer break he couldn't stop talking about this beautiful, fantastic, brilliant nurse he'd met at a hospital in Peoria. We all knew this was to be his soulmate and life partner, and we were right. That partnership lasted well over 50 years, and I know it will resume in heaven. I will forever miss my good buddy and longtime friend, and I look forward to seeing him again.
Steve Weinberg
Yvonne Lugo
January 19, 2019
My deepest and most sincere condolences to Dr. Schafers family. Dr. Schafer was truly and literally a God-sent blessing & answer to prayer. I was blessed to have him for my Orthopedic Surgeon in 1987 for a two-stage spinal fusion and rods surgery, and continued to be blessed with his care for all of my Ortho/Spine issues and needs for the past 31 years. His treatment and care of my spinal condition and concerns always made me feel like I was very special and important to him and I have no doubt that I received the same loving care & treatment that some of his celebrity patients would have received from him. I always knew I was receiving the very best care & treatment that was available and that always brought me a tremendous amount of peace. I'm truly going to miss this beautiful doctor and man. May GOD bless his family, relatives and friends and bring you comfort as you adjust to a life without this amazing and beautiful soul. I have no doubt our beloved Dr. Michael Schafer is in the presence of The LORD, The Great Physician and Healer, being rewarded for being a good and faithful servant of the LORD while he was on loan to us here on earth.
Yvonne Lugo
January 19, 2019
Dr. Schafer was truly and literally a God-sent blessing & answer to prayer. He was my orthopedic surgeon in 1987 and continued to be my Ortho/Spine doctor for the past 31 years. His treatment and care of my spinal condition and concerns always made me feel like I was very special and important to him and I have no doubt that I received the same loving care & treatment that some of his celebrity patients would have received from him. I always knew I was receiving the very best care & treatment that was available and I'm truly going to miss this beautiful doctor and man. May GOD bless his family, relatives and friends and bring you comfort as you adjust to a life without this amazing and beautiful soul.
Cindy Powers
January 4, 2019
It is with profound regrets, that I have learned of Dr. Schafer's passing.
He performed a very complicated, 2-stage procedure on my spine in 1988. He relieved 25 years of daily suffering for me, for which I expressed my eternal gratitude to him, on several occassions.
He changed the quality of my life. No words can ever fully express the depth of my appreciation nor my saddness at his untimely passing. God bless him and keep him, until you are all together again.
Frances Manson
December 2, 2018
Dr Schafer performed three back surgeries on me. After the last surgery, he came to my bedside and said well young lady (I am the same age as him), I was able to keep you in hospital one more day by calling you obese, but you should lose weight so you dont come back to me. I appreciated his honesty and kind delivery of this message, and in the past several years, he has been my motivation to lose 50 lbs and I am now at a healthy weight. I am very grateful to him and so sad to hear about losing him.
Michael Samuel
November 12, 2018
I am so very sorry . I did not learn about your passing until today . You were a very important of my family both personal and professional.
Between my father , mother and brother , I was the only one whos body you did not cut into, you chose PT when I blew out 2 discs over surgey.
You will be sorely missed in more ways then you will know . I know you , my father and Dr Suker are United and arguing over the same things you did before .
You were family to us . My deepest condolences to family . My God take care of you during this difficult time .
Allison Campbell
November 12, 2018
My deepest sympathy to Dr Schafer entire family. I am so saddened to hear of his passing. He was a very kind man. He actually took the time to explain things in details so I could understand. He was an excellent Dr. and will be missed by many. May all the happy memories of him live on in your hearts forever.
Jacquelyn Getz
November 9, 2018
In 1996, Dr. Schafer performed a 15-hour surgery to "take apart" a spinal fusion I'd had done at age 14, and to basically reconstruct my spine with instrumentation from T-2 to L-4. During my year-long recovery period, and the 22 years since then, I grew very fond of Dr. Schafer. I trusted him with my life; and over time I couldn't help but come to love the man dearly. I remember once thanking him for being so brave and courageous to dare to attempt to do what did for me.
As I read the letter from Northwestern the other day informing me of his passing, I shed tears of sadness. I'd seen him in June and knew it would likely be one of my last visits, as there had been talk of retirement. I asked if he'd mind if I took a selfie with him, and I'm so thankful that he obliged because now I have that to remember him by.
My heart goes out to his family. May it comfort them to know that he certainly will be missed here on Earth, but his faith in the Great Physician has earned him a place in Heaven with many crowns to cast at His feet.
So for now it's good bye, dear Dr. Schafer. I'll miss you but will see you again someday in Glory.
Mary Cascella
November 7, 2018
I just got word of Dr. Schafer's passing. He literally saved my life and he was my champion for over 30 years. Know that he touched to life of everyone he cared for and we will all miss him more than words can say. Condolences and blessings,
Mary Ann Cascella
Rita Novak
November 2, 2018
Only yesterday did I learn of Dr. Schafer's passing. I am heartsick and send deepest sympathy to his family and close friends.
In 1985, Dr. Schafer performed a laminectomy on me and gave me relief from unrelenting pain. I thought he walked on water. During the months that I tried to avoid surgery, he was kind, knowledgeable, and patient. At last, when there was no alternative to surgery, he was gently firm about the medically obvious choice. In the intervening 30 years, I returned to see him on occasion when age and strain caused less severe spinal issues. I felt so lucky to have him as my doctor and to have complete confidence in his judgment.
It is sad to think that so many patients, particularly ones like the young girl with scoliosis who was my hospital roommate, will not have the benefit of Dr. Schafer's skills and character.
I will miss him, as will many others.
Tracy Devey
November 1, 2018
My prayers go out to the family.Doctor Schaffer was my Dr. for 12 years.He was an excellent surgeon with a great sense of humor and a caring person. He will be greatly missed.
Prescott Dunlap
November 1, 2018
Devastated, he was a great Dr and I was lucky enough to be his patient. I cannot Express the level of kindness humanity and professionalism he displayed during my treatments and visits. I am currently in Physical therapy under his order and this is the second time of life changing NON SURGICAL care and physical core therapy with his Favorite group at Glenview Athletico. Peace to him and his and he will be sorely missed,pun intended.
Tom Mahoney
November 1, 2018
My heart and prayers go out to the entire Schafer family. I was a patient of Dr. Schafer for 19 years. He was kind, down to earth, an excellent surgeon and a wonderful man. My wife and I will miss him dearly.
God Bless!
October 31, 2018
My heart is heavy. A friend called and asked me if this was the Dr. I speak so highly about. When I broke and crushed a vertebra last year, I totally trusted his medical instructions as I felt he really cared. He was what I have described as an old fashioned Dr., one with a sense of humor, one who exuded kindness and one who was practical in his treatment. My deepest sympathy for his family and friends. He will always be in my prayers. Pat Deeb
Thomas O'Gara
October 31, 2018
Sorry I was away. I'm lucky He counted me as a friend, and I will miss him greatly.
Pam Heavens
October 28, 2018
Dr. Schafer saved my life in 1981 when he corrected my severe scoliosis. This surgery allowed me to lead a successful life. I am blessed to have had him as my doctor.
Scott Cleator
October 28, 2018
I am so saddened to learn today of the passing of Dr Michael Schafer. I worked for Dr Schafer in his radiology department at Northwestern Medical Faculty Foundation department of Orthopaedic Surgery from 1995 to 2005. Dr Schafer , or "the chief " , as we called him , was highly respected and admired by myself and all who worked for him. Dr Schafer was peerless in the work he did with his scoliosis patients. Many traveled cross country to see him in Chicago for the specialized and personal care he provided. My years of working in his department were the happiest of my career . I will always be in deep gratitude that he selected me to be a part of his team . Rest in peace "chief" and my heartfelt sympathy to Mrs Schafer and the family. Scott B Cleator
Cathleen Gutekanst
October 26, 2018
I worked for Dr Shafer as his office nurse from 2000 -2004, and I have never met anyone that I admire more than Dr Shafer. He was a rare combination of intellectual ability, technical prowess, and warmth and human kindness. I can't count the number of patients who told me that they have never forgotten his kindness to them at what was the lowest point of their lives: their surgery or illness. He was a wonderful boss to work for, and treated the office staff with respect & dignity.
All of my condolences go out to Mrs Shafer and his children. It is a great loss.
Julie Seely
October 23, 2018
My recollection of Dr Schafer is as clear as it was when I first met him in 1982. I can remember our conversation as though it happened yesterday. I was diagnosed with scoliosis when I was 12 years old and at 38, I was then a good candidate for surgery. I was very nervous while waiting to talk to him. I had my questions ready and when he sat down he asked me to put my paper & pen aside so we could just talk. I remember the relaxed feeling that came over me. He told me that surgery for me was not elective any more. I was relieved to be able to make that life changing decision. His kindness, compassion & concern left no doubt in my mind. My surgery took 6 hours and when when all the recuperating was completed, I was a new person.
At some point Mike asked me if I had children. I told him I did. He encountered to have them checked out and sure enough my old child had a spinal curve that needed immediate attention. My son spent several years in a scoliosis brace but when the bracing stopped the curve reverted back to a dangerous degree. Like me, my son too had a very successful surgery at the hands of Mike.
Mike was always cordial & gave you the time you needed. He knew how to lessen your anxiety while delivering tough messages.
What a great loss for the medical community, Northwestern in particular. No one will ever fill his shoes. Condolences to family & friends. RIP, Mike.
Patricia Harvey Dawson
October 22, 2018
Dr. Schafer, was one of the finest Ortho surgeons I worked with at my first job as a CRNA at Northwestern Memorial hospital , he is remembered fondly .......
Joan Guitart
October 22, 2018
Mike will be greatly missed by all of us at Northwestern. An extraordinary surgeon but most importantly, a kind and caring human being. Thoughtful, balanced and to the point. I was a new man after he fixed my back and I am forever grateful. My deepest condolence to the family.
Wendy Vittori
October 22, 2018
I was truly saddened to hear of Dr. Schafer's passing. I worked as an Ortho RN at Northwestern for 22 years, all of which Dr. Schafer was a huge part. I have such great memories of the 14 years working in the office with him, the other MDs, nurses, and entire staff. Dr. Schafer was respected by everyone, the head of our Ortho family. He wanted the best for his patients and they ADORED him! His love for his profession, his family, his department, and patients was evident at all times. Although I haven't worked at Northwestern for a few years now, I feel it's loss in losing Dr. Schafer. Rest In Peace.
Jean Barr
October 22, 2018
My deepest sympathy goes to the family, friends, and colleagues of Dr. Schafer. I have known him since 1976 when he was just getting started as an attending at Northwestern Memorial. He literally straightened my spine out and my life also. Over the years, he provided the right direction and many, many answers to my questions for help. I will always be grateful for his kind caring, his honesty when he did not have an answer, his perceptiveness, his skill as a surgeon, and his genuine likability. He will be missed.
reginald cooper
October 22, 2018
Mike was an outstanding Orthopaedist, but more importantly he was a great human being. He was so kind and caring. He was a superb doctor and teacher.
It was my honor to know him, and I will miss him greatly.
My prayers go out to the family. I trust that God gave him an easy passage from this life to the next.
Reginald Cooper M.D. Chairman emeritus Orthopaedic Department University of Iowa
David Teuscher
October 22, 2018
Mike was first and last a doctor's doctor, and always kept his focus on what was best for the patient. I was lucky enough to serve with him for several years in the leadership of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons where he was universally respected as a leader, mentor and great humanitarian by his colleagues and the professional staff.
May his personal and professional families be buoyed by great memories of the short time we walked together with Mike on God's green earth.
Wally Cornett
October 22, 2018
One of my absolute favorite golf partners at Westmoreland. Mike was always smiling and just happy to be playing. Never a bad word about anyone or any thing....and always happy to be of help, even though he was really busy and in demand. We'll miss him terribly.
Judy Poignant Schaer
October 21, 2018
Eileen, so sorry to hear of your loss at such an early age. May you find peace and comfort. Your '61 class mate, Judy Poignant Schaer
October 21, 2018
I am one of myriad grateful patients who Dr. Schafer gave extended mobility and a better quality of life thanks to his gentle caring and professionalism.
My spinal fusion in 1997 kept me out of an inevitable wheelchair existence thanks to his surgical talents .
This is a man I will never forget and continue to treasure. He left us far too soon.
God speed Mike.
Regina Gorski
Palatine
Adrienne Powers Pike
October 21, 2018
Dear Shafer Family,
Please accept my condolences on the loss of Dr. Michael Shafer.
As a new graduate nurse in Northwestern's orthopedic unit, I enjoyed providing nursing care for Dr.Shafer's patients. He truly cared about each individual while displaying excellent clinical and surgical skills.
When I was struck by an automobile, my knee was traumatized. I chose Dr.Shafer for my knee surgery and he explained and implemented his plan of care with compassion. I am forever grateful. God bless you all.
October 21, 2018
Thoroughly enjoyed working with Dr. Schafer-a kind warm hearted and spirited man. May he rest peacefully and join all those he touched and helped along the way. Colleen, Brian and Caroline.
Marcia Greenberg
October 21, 2018
Dr. Schafer performed surgery on me in 1994 and again in 2004. He was a wonderful surgeon and a caring, generous individual. I had complete confidence in him and trusted his judgment. He will be sorely missed. My deepest sympathy to his entire family.
Michael Diment
October 21, 2018
In 1986, I was a hard-working kid from Iowa, and Michael F. Schafer gave me a chance. He accepted me into the Northwestern Orthopedic Residency Training Program. I wanted so badly to go there, and knew how fortunate I was to be chosen. What I didnt know was how profound an impact Michael F. Schafer would have on my life.
His dedication to his patients and the time he spent with them, his dedication to the residency program, the residents, the faculty, the hospital, and his dedication to his friends and family was inspiring to say the least, and never again to be duplicated to say the most. It wasnt until my later years that I realized how much my own life has been a testament to Michael F. Schafer. I know I am only one of many who is a better physician, and a better man, for having known Michael F. Schafer.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you, we have lost a great man. Know that until the day I die, I will remember all the good things he taught me, all the great things he stood for, and I will dedicate the rest of my life to being like Mike.
Megan Eggert
October 21, 2018
Dr. Schafer performed spinal fusion surgery at age 30 on me for scoliosis He treated me for 22 years afterward. He was an amazing surgeon and an expert in his field who always gave tremendous relief to any problem I had. He will be truly missed and I'm so sad about his passing. I will be forever grateful for his treatment.. Ptayers to his family.
Mark Wieting
October 21, 2018
Mike was my orthopaedistand my friendfor 33 years. When I had a knee problem a colleague at AAOS recommended Mike; he was, at the time, the chairman of the Orthopaedic Review Course for surgeons about to take their board exams. It covered all of orthopaedicsa pretty fantastic credential. He's also a great guy, Fred added. A huge understatement. Little did I know I'd spend many hours with him working on Academy projects and sitting next to him at board meetings. Like all of us, I will miss him greatly and my heart goes out to Eileen and to the rest of his family that were so precious to him. I feel privileged to have known him.
Susan Rolander
October 20, 2018
Dr. Shafer performed my scoliosis surgery in 1988. He was a kind, patient & caring doctor who made a very scary time for my family & myself much less so. My condolences and deepest sympathy to his family.
David Shapiro
October 20, 2018
I met Mike when I was a junior medical student almost 40 years ago at Northwestern. He became a role model and mentor to me and the reason that I became an orthopedic surgeon. I was privileged to come back and join him in practice as a spine surgeon, the proudest moment of my career.
He was a friend, a teacher, a colleague and remained a mentor for almost 30 years. He embodied the principles of being a great doctor and a great human being. He will be missed.
Deborah Jajko Murray
October 20, 2018
Dr. Schafer performed a successful scoliosis surgery for me in 1986. He was a wonderful, kind and caring person as well as an excellent surgeon. My deepest sympathy for his wife and family. I have always felt truly blessed that he was my doctor/surgeon.
Kristy Weber
October 20, 2018
Mike Schafer was a gentle giant in the field of orthopaedic surgery. I always appreciated his integrity, compassion, and wise counsel. He will be truly missed.
David Shapiro
October 20, 2018
I met Mike, then Dr. Schafer, when I was a junior in medical school. I was privileged to join him as a partner when I came back to back to Chicago to start my career as a spine surgeon.
He was a mentor, a role model, a friend, and a colleague par excellance. He is the reason I fell in love with orthopedics, and spine surgery in particular. I counted on his advice and friendship for close to 30 years. I will miss him.
Ronald DeWald
October 20, 2018
Our thoughts and prayers go to Eileen and family upon Michaels passing. Mary and I have know known the Schaefers for over 40 years. Friends, colleagues, competitor, Scoliosis Reselarch Society members, golfing buddies,etc.were all intermingled at the same time. Michael was a true scholar, a gentleman and the best Chairman of Orthopedics at Northwestern that I ever knew.
Marsha Caccamo
October 20, 2018
Dr. Schafer was one of the most caring and generous physicians I have ever known. He took care of my husband when he suffered from back pain and was always kind and patient with him. My deepest sympathy to his wife and entire family. May he rest in peace.
Kara Zelazny
October 20, 2018
The Zelazny family was lucky enough to meet Dr. Schafer and Mrs. Schafer on the sidelines of many of their grandchildren's sporting events. I loved talking to him and seeing him at little league baseball, hockey and swim meets. He was an amazing grandfather, fan, and friend. We were blessed to know him and so sad to hear of his passing. Our love and hugs to Grandma Schafer and the entire family from Dan, Kara, Belle, Mac and Nora.
RC.
October 20, 2018
To the SCHAFER FAMILY in their time of grief, I'm truly sorry for your loss. May 'God' give your peace during this most difficult time.
October 20, 2018
Dr. Schafer was an outstanding physician and wonderful to work with. I had the opportunity to work with him at Northwestern and feel very grateful for this experience. He was an excellent teacher and impressive person. My sincere condolences go out to his family.
Alice and George Heidkamp
October 20, 2018
Mike was always so very upbeat and gracious. He was a superb physician and a better person.
Always a pleasure to work with, and always a caring care giver.
We will remember him in our prayers.
John Fierro
October 19, 2018
God bless. You were a great mentor and friend Dr Schafer. Your impact on countless lives is immeasurable. You were a friend to all who were fortunate to have met you. I will always treasure my time with you and the influence you had on me. May you have eternal rest. Prayers for Eileen and family. The John Fierro family.
Suzie Shoub
October 19, 2018
We were so sad to hear of Dr. Schafer's passing this morning. He has been our orthopedic specialist for 15 years, first doing an amazing operation on my husband 15 years ago; and then treating my back problems as well. He always had a smile, and was never too busy to call and ask how we were feeling. We will miss him. Our thoughts are with his family.
Suzie and David Shoub
Tom & Linda Misch
October 19, 2018
Mike Schafer was simply the most caring friend imaginable. Our condolences on your loss to Eileen and the entire Schafer family. Our family is stunned to hear of Mike's passing, but assured of his eternal reward, for he has been the definition of love and service to his fellow man. Truly irreplaceable. God bless you all. -Tom & Linda & family
Vickey Eberle
October 19, 2018
My sincere condolences to the Schafer family. From what I have been hearing and reading he sounded like a great man. May God keep him close to his heart.
Himanshu Shah
October 19, 2018
I did not know Dr. Schafer personally but through his son Steve, I knew that he was a kind, caring, and thoughtful person that always went above and beyond to help others. I would have loved to meet him in person as it seems from the messages below and social media that he was a really caring doctor and loving friend and father!
Fred Caito
October 19, 2018
My sincere condolences to the Schafer family. I will always cherish my friendship with Dr, Schafer. He was simply one of the best I ever worked with. My prayers are with you, rest well my friend. Fred Caito former Trainer Chicago Bears
George Quill
October 19, 2018
Mike was a truly great man! He is one of only a few mentors I can name who were pivotal in my life and career. I truly believe that I would not be where I am now nor would I have become the surgeon I now am without him. May faith and family console his family.
Brian O'Donnell
October 19, 2018
Growing up and spending many hours around the Schafer house, I can look back and say that Dr. Schafer had a profound impact on my life. He was a great role model and someone I always looked at with awe. I have often thought of Dr. Schafer and the many examples he provided me on what it takes to be a good father. May God welcome his good servant and I send all my love and support to the entire Schafer family.
October 19, 2018
Dr Schafer was one of the most selfless and generous people I have ever had the pleasure to know. He helped keep me on the field. He did the same for my daughters. Rain or shine, day or night, Doc was ALWAYS there to help. We respected him and loved him. We will miss him. Our sincerest condolences to the Schafer family.
Tom, Cara, Georgia, Angela, Lea, and Emersen Waddle
Leon Benson
October 19, 2018
Mike was program chair at Northwestern when I started my orthopaedic education in 1985. His kindness, humor, dedication to teaching, and work ethic have been role models for me ever since. I have had the privilege of working with him as a colleague for the past 28 years, and his mentoring, friendship, and commitment to the principles of serving others has made me a better person and better doctor. I will always remember and commit to his spirit of generosity and personal sincerity.
Orthopedic surgery scheduling team
October 18, 2018
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
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