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Schmidt Funeral Home, P.C. - Nazareth

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Nazareth, Pennsylvania

David Schaeffer Obituary

The Reverend David B. Schaeffer peacefully passed away surrounded by family and friends at the Roper Hospice Cottage in Mount Pleasant, SC on Saturday, March 2, 2019. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Leroy and Arlene Mae Schaeffer. David is survived by loving wife Carol; brother Roger (Sue); sons, John Benjamin (Casie) and David (Kendyll); and four grandchildren, Clara, Brielle, William, and Ruthie.David graduated from Southern Lehigh High School (Class of 1967), and graduated from Kutztown State University (Class of 1971) with a B.S. in both History and German. Three decades later, he received a distinguished alumni award from Kutztown University. He was a veteran of the United States Army as a Private First Class (SP4). David graduated from Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary in Columbia, SC and ordained in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America in 1977.David was an exceptional pastor who in following his Savior, Jesus Christ, tirelessly provided pastoral services for the community. He was ordained in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America in 1977 and served as a pastor in the ELCA for 40 years. David was the assistant pastor of St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Nazareth, PA from 1977–1982; was pastor of Peace Tohickon Lutheran Church in Perkasie, PA from 1982–1989; and was the senior pastor of St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Nazareth, PA from 1989–2017. Among the thousands of his pastoral acts, David's officiating hundreds of funerals for people with no church affiliation stands out. He was frequently seen visiting the sick throughout the Lehigh Valley. He was an active supporter of the Nazareth Area Food Bank, served as president of the Board for Moravian Hall Square for 12 years, was an active member of the Rotary Club in Nazareth for more than 25 years, and was a lifelong member of the American Legion (Post 145). David was also an avid tennis player, frequently attempted golf, and enjoyed traveling abroad.Most notably, David was the leader of St. John's Lutheran Church where he encouraged his members to become better servants of Christ in the community. He will not only be dearly missed by his family and friends, but also by the countless people for whom he touched. David was an excellent preacher and his sermons were recognized as heart-felt, inspiring and meaningful to everyone listening. He began every sermon with this prayer by Theodore Parker Ferris: "Heavenly Father, make us masters of ourselves so that we may become the servants of others. Take our minds and think through them; our lips and speak through them; our hearts and set them on Fire! Amen."Family and friends are invited to a viewing on Thursday, March 14, from 3-7 pm in St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church, 200 S. Broad St., Nazareth, PA. A funeral service will be held on Friday, March 15 at 10 am in the church. There will be no viewing hours on Friday prior to the service. Burial will be private with the family in Friedensville Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of the Schmidt Funeral Home, 407 Belvidere St., Nazareth, PA.In lieu of flowers, memorials in David's name may be offered to the church, or to the Roper Hospice Cottage, 676 Wando Park Blvd., Mount Pleasant, SC 29464. Personal condolences may be offered at schmidtfuneralhomepc.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Morning Call on Mar. 10, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for David Schaeffer

Sponsored by Schmidt Funeral Home, P.C. - Nazareth.

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Tyler Schmidt

May 21, 2026

Remembering Pastor Schaeffer. He was a source of stability in my life from age 4 all the way through marriage and beyond.

Mary Hillebrenner

March 2, 2020

Remembering one of the saddest days. One year in heaven. Pastor Schaeffer, you were an inspiration to all that had the honor of meeting you. Mary Hillebrenner

April 2, 2019

Carol, I am so sorry for your loss, my deepest sympathy.
Angie Lauer

Freda Kressler

March 29, 2019

Will sadly miss u!!passed on my birthday!loved your sat.evenings at church.

March 28, 2019

Carol My deepest sympathy for you and your family .You are in my thoughts and prayers
Jill Stoelzl

March 27, 2019

Carol, please accept my deepest sympathy. God bless you and your family.

Shelly Haas Price from GLVWOCN

March 19, 2019

Even though we were not members of St. John's Lutheran we visited Saturday night service many many times and came to love listening to Pastor Schaeffer's amazing voice with a tone and voice almost like God himself. He ended up blessing our Wedding rings and performing a 2 nd wedding ceremony for our Family due to our destination wedding - We will never forget him and will dearly miss him and his wonderful full of life personality. Rest In Peace in God's light Pastor Schaeffer. Renee and Sam Azzalina

Sylvia Altner-Jankowitsch

March 18, 2019

Pastor Schaeffer was our Pastor at Peace Lutheran Church Perkasie, PA. I was twelve year old when he became our Minister. He spent so much time with the youth group. We went to many retreats and I still have a photo of us at Great Adventure. My father was coming to the end of his life with cancer and was not a member of Peace Lutheran but Pastor Schaeffer visited him every day until he passed. He was such a kind man. I will never forget what he gave us his love, kindness and the appreciation of God.

Peggie Orwig

March 18, 2019

In loving memory of one fantastic person. He truly loved doing Gods work with compassion; never tiring; always ready to listen and comfort. He never met my father, but when he spoke at his funeral, you would never have known. My condolences to Carol and the family .

Karlene Kipp

March 17, 2019

Pastor was my direct connection to our Lord. He was so selfless with his time for anyone who needed him or asked for his help, even those who were not members of St. John's. His faith was so deep and true. He told me of someone who came to his door and asked for money. He said he had to give the man money because it could very well be Jesus dressed as a stranger. He has been the biggest inspiration in my life! I missed him when he retired, and now I will miss him till we meet again! Thank you, Carol, Ben and David, for being just as selfless for sharing Pastor's time for his flock. May God send comfort and peace to all who have been affected by the loss of this great man!

FLOYD SCHLEGEL

March 16, 2019

R.I..P. REV. SCHAEFFER..WONDERFUL MEMORIES OF BEING ABLE TO BE PART OF ST. JOHN'S SATURDAY EVENING WORSHIP SERVICES.

Kathy Walizer

March 15, 2019

Prayers, along with hugs sent to Carol and family. So very sorry for the loss of a wonderful man. May he rest in peace with our Lord, and may our Lord comfort you in this time.

Marie Hosier

March 15, 2019

Pastor Dave was one of the nicest men I Have ever met. I observed many of his services through my brother and sister -in- law's (Art and Jerry Serfass) association with the church. I found Pastor Dave to be the most gracious, kind and humble Christian I have ever known. His messages of peace, humility, reflection and love where those I have carried with me. My deepest sympathies go out to his family. I am sure they know he is still smiling on them and sending his forever love.

N & family

March 14, 2019

In honor of a very nice pastor!

Emanuel Travel Service

March 14, 2019

We are very saddened to hear about the passing of Reverend Schaeffer. He was such a happy person always looking forward to his next adventure. Carol and family you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Melody and Raymond Kerr

March 14, 2019

Sending condolences to Carol,boys,family and friends. Many fond memories from a beautiful soul. Truly a messinger.
May God give you strength and comfort now and always.

Ruth and Ken Kuhns

March 12, 2019

We were deeply saddened to hear of Pastor Schaeffer's passing. We were blessed to have known him from our years at St. John's and honored that he married us 40 years ago. He was a man of tremendous love and grace. To say that the world is a better place because of Pastor Schaeffer is an understatement. Our heartfelt sympathies to Carol and the entire family.

Joseph Kanimea

March 12, 2019

Truly a saint. Thanks for knowing and working with you at Nazareth. You are such an ecumenical outreach person. Your welcoming and kindness is very noticeable. I know now that you will have all the time playing golf in heaven. Rest in peace.

Frank Maitz

March 11, 2019

Sorry to hear about David's passing. We were very close in high school.

Janet Hinkel Johnson

March 11, 2019

It is with great sadness that I learn of the passing of Pastor Dave. It is a great loss to the family and his countless friends and flock that he lead at St. John's for so many years. God has new plans for him in his midst and I know my parents will be so happy to meet him again. Our sincere sympathy to Carol and her family. May you be comforted with peace and wonderful memories. Bill and Janet (Hinkel) Johnson

Teena & Don Bloss

March 11, 2019

Carol, Don and I are so sorry to hear of David's passing. We want you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I didn't know David well but after reading all these obits I certainly know he was a very loved Man and Pastor.

Hannah Pennewell Poole

March 11, 2019

Roger, My brother, Fred, Solehi classmate of David's, alerted me to his passing - sorry for your loss. Your brother was certainly accomplished - so my sympathies to you and your family.

March 11, 2019

Carol and boys..so sorry for your loss. I am so fortunate to have known such a wonderful human being. He touched so many people during his lifetime, myself and family included.We will all miss him, may God Bless all of you and keep you safe.
Pat Hutchings

Karen Scott

March 11, 2019

Carol and Family; Please accept my sincere sympathy for your loss of Pastor. Although I was not a member of St. John's, he always made me feel welcome whenever I subbed at the organ for many summers! My memories will always be of a large personality, a person who took time to speak with me whenever I practiced, and best of all, the wonderful resounding AMEN at the ends of inspiring sermons and prayers. Hugs and prayers, and thanks for sharing YOUR musical talents! Karen Scott

stephanie Schneck

March 10, 2019

He was such a great man that I had the pleasure of meeting. He will forever be in my heart and prayers. Till we meet again.

Gary Baltz

March 10, 2019

We will surely miss you Pastor Dave. Thank you so much for all you have done for us and our church, and community. Carol we are so sorry to miss the service , but we are out of town. Love and prayers to you and your family....Gary and Janice Baltz

March 10, 2019

I became one of Pastor Schaeffer's many friends years ago when we connected quite often in our work. I will always remember and value the opportunities he afforded me to supply in his absence at St. John's. He used to joke with me when he'd say, "Ernie, you have so many relatives here at St.John's, they'd chase me out of Nazareth if I didn't ask you." I've been blessed by Pastor Dave's friendship and his ministry. A truly gifted and always faithful servant of our Lord has passed on to his loving God. Peace!

Sue Durner

March 10, 2019

Pastor Schaeffer was an amazing man who touched so many people. This included my family and especially my daughter Hailey. May you Rest In Peace Pastor Schaeffer, you will be missed by so many. And may God bless Carol and the entire family. With fond memories and love,The Durner Family

Sergeant Major (E-9) Larry E. & Mrs. Sheila M. (LaBar) Williams, US Army/ Retired

March 10, 2019

Sir,
I did not know you personally, however I would very much like to "Thank You" for your dedicated and honorable Military Service to OUR country.
At a later date we will meet in that "SPECIAL PLACE" which GOD reserves for ALL of those who have stepped forward to serve their country in a Military Uniform.
May ALL of GOD'S blessings be with your Dear Family!

March 10, 2019

sorry for your lose . god and time will help . the repash gang T L C .

March 10, 2019

Carol,
Holding you and your family in my heart and prayers. What David Schaeffer has left behind will remain in the hearts of many. I was blessed to have had him as a pastor.
Ginger Ritchie

Karen Kihurani

March 9, 2019

Warm loving thoughts to Carol and their children.

Bruce and Phyllis Snyder

March 9, 2019

Carol and sons. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Pastor Schaeffer was truly a holy man. Take comfort in knowing that during his life on earth he helped so many people with his words and deeds. We are all fortunate to have known him.

Susan Ruggles

March 8, 2019

David Schaeffer taught me so many things when I was an intern and then assistant pastor serving with him in Nazareth. His heart was pure in his love for God and dedication to his 'flock'. His love for his family was right behind his love for God. Carol and family, may your hearts be comforted in knowing his journey here on this earth might be complete but his place with our Savior is assured. GREAT! I will never eat lifesavers again and not think of him!

In Peace. Pastor Sue and family

Judith Tomko

March 8, 2019

Oh Carol, to you and the boys and the entire family, we are so saddened to hear this news. Pastor was loved by so many and will be dearly missed by all who knew him, especially those in the Nazareth community. Please know our thoughts and sympathies are with you and the family. He has gone home to be with his Lord, but the pain is great for those of us still here. In sympathy and friendship, Bill and Judy Tomko and family

Janice Smith

March 8, 2019

Pastor Schaeffer was truly a messenger from God and his spirit, sermons and leadership at St. John's strengthened my faith in so many ways.

Donald Meyers

March 7, 2019

For all the years that I knew Rev. Schaeffer I can always remember that no matter what kind of day you had I can always remember that "GREAT" Smile on Rev. Schaeffers face. Whenever I was up from Florida I would always stop by and have a talk with him and sit around and have a good time. I can "HONESTLY" say that I lost a really GOOD Friend and my prayers are with him and his family at this time.

Pastor Schaeffer discreetly slipped into the nave to watch the children perform a Christmas play. He found such joy in life.

Ben Miller

March 7, 2019

Pastor Schaeffer knew me as a boy when he was our Assistant Pastor and I was sang in the choir and served as an acolyte. He became our Senior Pastor in my teenage years and he watched me grow into the man I am today. No matter how old I grew or how much baggage I carried, I was always "Benji" to him.

During the worst struggles in my life, when I couldn't leave my house and was afraid to go to church, Pastor Schaeffer came to me. He tried to understand my conditions and he would ask me questions about what I was experiencing and how I was feeling. He wanted to help me and he cared enough to keep trying to dig further in the hopes that he could find a way. Pastor Schaeffer loved me the same as every other member of our St. John's family and he made sure I never forgot that God loves me too.

In those days when I was homebound, the church sent me CDs of the services for me to listen at home and Pastor Schaeffer came to the house. We'd talk and pray together, then he'd give me communion in my home. He was a great man and an even greater soul. Pastor Schaeffer dedicated his life to God and set out to spread the Gospel, but I don't believe he ever knew the profound impact on so many lives.

I pray that his family will find some peace in knowing that Pastor Schaeffer left a huge legacy of love and community that will endure in each of our hearts. He taught us to truly love one another and put our faith in Jesus and we helped each other through good and bad. As prominently as those themes featured in all of his sermons, he taught those lessons best through his actions every day.

Sandy Miller

March 6, 2019

I was so saddened by the news of Pastor Schaeffer's passing. He was such a help to me when Alan passed as I'm sure he was to many others who suffered sudden losses. He did so much to help and comfort people that went beyond regular pastoral duties. My sorrow and prayers are with his family at this most difficult time.

Mary Reichel-Knecht

March 6, 2019

And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.~ Jeremiah 3:15

And that he sure did...Pastor, I will never forget the day that our paths crossed on Belvidere St. you were just starting your Pastoral duties at St.John's. It was on that day that God had sent not only me but, my entire family his most valuable shepherd. We are forever grateful that God sent us his BEST to our little town of Nazareth. It is with sad hearts but, grateful and full ones that we must say farewell. Your job here on earth is complete, and what a great job you did! I can only imagine the warm and loving welcome you received as you entered the gates of Heaven. and, I hope that one of the first faces that you saw was your dear friend Joe welcoming you home. Rest easy, till we cross paths again.

Forever Blessed,
Mary Reichel-Knecht & Family

March 6, 2019

with deepest asympathy ro carol and two sons and family. so sorry about pastors passing.he will be mised, whar a great man,,from jean e, miltenberger and her family, nazareth,pa..

Cheryl Shook

March 6, 2019

I knew Rev. Schaeffer since I was 11 years old. He was our families pastor for many years and saw us through happy and sad . As children we called him PS when he taught us in conformation class. Many great memories. He will be missed very much.
The Shooks
George and Cheryl
Joseph and Trisha

Mary Hillebrenner

March 6, 2019

Carol & Family,

What an amazing man to leave us so suddenly. So many are grieving with you. Pastor brought such wonderful messages to the people of St. John's which included anecdotal stories of his family and U.S. History. "Well done good and faithful servant."

Roxanne DeRaymond

March 6, 2019

John3:16
"For God so loved the world,that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life."
Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Rev Schaeffer was the best and will be dearly missed. Treasured memories forever.
Love and Peace,
The DeRaymond Family

Barbara Smith

March 6, 2019

Dear Carol and family. Our deepest condolences to you and your family during this very sad time. Pastor Schaeffer was an amazing man and he will truly be missed. May your wonderful memories bring you all peace and comfort.

Nancy/Bill Brackbill

March 6, 2019

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rev. Schaeffer. Not only was he our pastor but he was a friend, passionate about his community, and a devoted leader of his church . He was committed to helping everyone. God works in strange ways. He, along with Carol, deserved to have a long and lengthy retirement, especially enjoying many experiences with grandchildren. It has been cut short. However, we know that Heaven is a better place with his presence; and, the Nazareth Area is a better place because of the work of Rev. Schaeffer. In our thoughts he will always live with us for all the good he did. God Bless Carol and the Schaeffer Family.

Wendy Geist

March 6, 2019

RIP you will be missed. I'm so thankful I got to be a part of your life at Peace Luthern Church in my younger yrs.

ST. JOHNS LUTHERAN, NAZARETH

March 6, 2019

SCHAEFFER FAMILY: DON'T CRY BECAUSE HIS LIFE IS OVER. SMILE,BECAUSE IT WAS. DEEPEST SYMPATHY. OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILY AT THIS DIFFICULT TIME. MAY HE REST IN PEACE.

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St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church

200 S. Broad St., Nazareth, PA

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Schmidt Funeral Home, P.C. - Nazareth

407 Belvidere Street, Nazareth, PA 18064-2323

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