Cameron William Schafer

Cameron William Schafer, 64, of Albuquerque, NM, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 6, 2024, after a bravely-fought battle with abdominal cancer. He is survived by his beloved spouse, Christie Michelle Marrs, of Albuquerque; children, Abigail Schafer and Zachary Schafer, also of Albuquerque; stepson, Henry Horstmann, of Tempe, AZ; brother, Derek Schafer, of Billings, MT; "chosen family," Dan Hall and Zoe Mohesky of Missoula, MT; dear friends and honorary "brothers", Bryan Pfeifer, of Albuquerque, David Fisher of Cary, NC; and scores of adoring extended family, friends, colleagues, union brothers and sisters, and former students. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Beverly Schafer, of Billings, MT.

Cameron was born July 18, 1959, in Billings, Montana. He experienced an idyllic childhood, which he often referred to lovingly. He graduated from Billings Senior High School in 1977 and worked hard during young adulthood in several industries. He was a proud graduate of University of Montana, earning a Bachelor's Degree in History/Political Science and going on to become a board-certified Special Education Teacher in New Mexico. He had a positive, lasting impact on Albuquerque's South Valley community, teaching at both Polk Middle and Pajarito Elementary Schools, then serving Rio Grande High School as Head Special Education teacher for decades. Cam was a union teacher to his core, serving as RGHS union representative for countless years and as High School Vice President of Albuquerque Teachers Federation. He was a tireless union organizer and advocate for his profession. He mentored countless students and colleagues and was well-respected by everyone he met or knew.

To quote lifelong colleague and friend, Samuel Kappel, "I've never met anyone quite as comfortable in their own skin. He was just so damn charismatic, he could make anyone, anywhere, anytime, feel at ease, heard and understood. So intelligent and gifted at seeing through the bullshit, which made him an amazing problem-solver."

To quote friend and neighbor, Jason Lott, "I adored Cam. He was brave and principled, smart and funny. Sincere with his comments, no BS with that man. A reader, a scholar, a protector of those who needed protection. The world needs more men like him."

Cameron was a voracious reader and thinker. He was able to seamlessly discuss nearly any topic and loved to share his knowledge with others as well as to learn new perspectives constantly. He was a lifelong Green Bay Packers fan and supporter. He vigorously supported his University of Montana Grizzlies and was passionate about history, science fiction and music. Cam was well-traveled and worldlier than he ever let on. He and Christie spent their summers and vacations journeying the country in search of great live music, food, friends, nature, art and adventures. They could also be found simply enjoying one another's company poolside, friends remembering that Cam nearly always had his head buried in a book and was able to tune out the world and drama around him! He was a welcome addition to any social situation and folks sought out his company, for to be around him was so peaceful and heartwarming. He had a beautiful laugh and kind, brown eyes. He was tall and formidable, yet a gentle and mellow pragmatist.

Cameron's close friends and family will celebrate his life and scatter his ashes at his favorite mountain lake in Montana this summer, one where he spent some of his happiest days. His spouse asks at this time that you keep a space in your heart for Cam and follow his lead in enjoying life and its rich pageant. Donations in his name may be sent to the Student Activity Fund at Rio Grande High School.