DONALD SHAFFER

DONALD L. SHAFFER

Pinole, CA,

(Formerly of Ankeny, IA)

Donald Shaffer passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 18, 2010, at his home at Bay Park Retirement Community in Pinole, CA. He was 88 years old.

Don was born on February 24, 1922, to Goldie and Bernard Shaffer in Killduff, IA. He lived and worked in the Des Moines and Ankeny areas for most of his life.

He served in the United States Army in the European Theater during World War II from October, 1942 to November, 1945, achieving the rank of Sergeant. He was a paratrooper with the famed 82nd Airborne Division making numerous combat jumps including the invasion of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge. He was awarded four Bronze Stars for his service. Don was a passionate and accomplished horseman for over 50 years showing American Saddle Bred horses throughout Iowa and the Midwest until the age of 82. He served as president of the Iowa Horse Show Association and was a founder and member of the IHSA Hall of Fame. He was part owner of Pioneer Lumber Company in Ankeny, IA, a major supplier of bridge building materials throughout the Midwest for over 25 years. He was also a member of Epworth United Methodist Church, Des Moines, IA.

Preceding him in death were his parents and siblings, Lester, Loraine, and Mozell.

Known for his enormously kind heart, infectious sense of humor, and unfailing devotion to his family, Don is survived by his wife of 67 years, Colleen, also of Pinole, CA; his sons, Joel (Caroline Wan), Stephen (Julia), and Michael (Martha Mills) Shaffer; and his grandchildren Norah Ashley Shaffer and Wyatt Scott Shaffer all of San Francisco, CA.

Inurnment will be at the Graham Cemetery at rural Mingo, IA at a later date. Condolences may be sent to Colleen Shaffer, 2621 Appian Way, #312, Pinole, CA 94564. Memorial contributions will be given to Iowa Horse Show Association (IHSA) Hall of Fame; and also the Graham Cemetery Association.