Robert Scott Schaffer

1968 - 2025

Robert Scott Schaffer, 56, of La Porte, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Monday, March 24, 2025.

Robert Scott Schaffer was born in Michigan City, Indiana, on April 26, 1968, to Charles Jerry and Karen (Nespo) Schaffer. His father is surviving and his mother is preceding him in death.

Rob and Marianne (Whitfield) were wed on May 29, 1993, in Michigan City, officiated by Reverend Gary Whitfield, eldest brother of Marianne. Together Rob and Marianne have two wonderful sons, Jacob Scott Schaffer and Nicholas Braden Schaffer.

As a family, we traveled near and far and enjoyed watching "Jeopardy" together, usually while eating something delicious he cooked for dinner (Chef Schaff!). He adored our new puppy who he affectionately named Walter Payton Schaffer. He is survived by his sister, Abby Benevides; and brother, Michael Schaffer (Laura); and was preceded in death by his sister, Jill Saylor.

Rob was steadfastly devoted to his family as a loving husband, father, son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle and a good friend to many. He was always more than willing to lend a helping hand, and with his mechanical knowledge and problem solving skills he could fix almost anything.

Rob graduated from Ball State University with a bachelor's degree in journalism education with an English minor. He was a lifelong sports fan of the Chicago Bears and Cubs. He also loved to watch college sports and root for Indiana teams, especially during March Madness. He was a member of the Sons of the American Legion.

Robert was a dedicated and diligent public servant. He taught eighth grade English at Michigan City Middle School for several years before eventually becoming a firefighter in Michigan City.

Over the course of his decades-long career, he would fill several vital roles at MCFD, from driver to captain to fire marshal, until his retirement in 2020. His unwavering courage and dedication to public safety contributed directly toward helping, enriching and saving lives over the course of his tenure.

All the while, Robert owned and operated his own business: Home Overseers and Maintenance Experts "Helping take the hassle out of your castle."

After retiring from the fire department, Robert would carry his experience back to the classroom, teaching fire science to high school students at A.K. Smith Career Center as part of La Porte County Careers in Technical Education, up until his passing on March 24, 2025.

Rob would want everyone to focus on the good stuff in life. Help someone when you can. Give where you can give. Love as hard as you can and be loyal to yourself and your values.

In lieu of flowers, the family plans to set up a scholarship fund in honor of Rob.

A celebration of life will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. March 29 at the American Legion Post 37, 756 US-20, Michigan City, IN 46360. Feel free to wear your Cubs attire.

The Root Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.