Andrew James Schafer

Andrew (Andy) James Schafer, age 71, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2025, after a hard and courageous battle with cancer. Born on July 27, 1953, in St. Paul, MN, to Andrew and Lillian (Daworshak) Schafer, Andy’s life was marked by service, hard work, and an unyielding devotion to family and community.

Andy began his distinguished military career with the 82nd Airborne – Signal Battalion at Fort Bragg, NC, and later served with the National Guard in the 2nd 163rd Combat Engineers. Over 16 years, he served honorably in various roles—from a scout in the armored cab and heavy equipment operator to staff sergeant—demonstrating his commitment and resilience. His military service laid the foundation for a lifetime of discipline and bravery.

It was at the College of Great Falls in 1976 that Andy met the love of his life, Cayla Brooks Schafer. They married on December 21, 1978, at Little Flower Parish in Browning, MT, and in 1980 they moved to Cut Bank, where they built a loving home and raised their family. Andy dedicated 35 years to the Glacier County Road Department, where he became known as a jack of all trades—a heavy equipment operator, truck driver, and skilled fabricator who knew every county road by heart.

Beyond his professional achievements, Andy was an active and beloved member of his community. He joined the Moose Lodge in May 2009 and served in numerous leadership roles including Trustee, Junior Governor, Governor, and Junior Past Governor, and most recently as Chaplain. His service extended to the Triangle Moose Legion, where he also served as Chaplain, reflecting his deep commitment to helping others.

Retiring from the County in 2015 did little to slow him down. Andy was a vibrant soul who embraced life with energy and enthusiasm. Whether playing pool in the Moose pool league, competing in corn hole tournaments, riding his motorcycle on adventures with friends, or crafting memorable gifts as an accomplished woodworker, his spirit of fun and dedication shone brightly.

Family was everything to Andy. He treasured every moment spent with his wife, his daughters, his sons-in-law, and his five grandchildren. Always present at concerts, sports events, birthdays, and family celebrations, Andy’s thoughtfulness and compassion touched the lives of everyone around him. His kindness extended even to animals, for whom he would do anything.

Andy is lovingly survived by his wife, Cayla; his daughters, Julia Doney (Mark) of Great Falls and Alice Simons (Bryan) of Cut Bank; his five grandchildren, Elijah, Noah, Parker, Harley, and Raegan; his sister, Connie Smith of Perryton, TX; his brother, Dennis Schafer of Waka, TX; and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Benefis Peace Hospice, Sletten Cancer Institute, The Gift of Life Housing or any cancer charity.

Rosary/Vigil servcies will be Monday, May 19, at 6:00 pm. Funeral mass will be Tuesday, May 20, at 10:00 am. All services will be held at St. Margaret Catholic Church in Cut Bank.