Charles V Schaefer III

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Charles Valentine Schaefer III, a beloved father, grandfather, engineer, entrepreneur, businessman, and philanthropist. Known by friends and family as Chuck, he was a remarkable individual whose contributions to both his profession and community were profound. Chuck passed away peacefully on September 5, 2025, at Hackensack University Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. He was 84 years old and is survived by his beloved wife, Carol Schaefer; his children, Carolyn Weininger and Charles V. Schaefer IV; his grandchildren, Rachael Weininger, Zachary Fitzmaurice, and Katherine Fitzmaurice; and his sister, Lynn Schaefer Bovenizer. He was predeceased by his daughter, Elizabeth "Betsy" Fitzmaurice.

Born on May 8, 1941, in Trenton, NJ, Chuck was the son of Lilian Meyer Schaefer and Charles V. Schaefer Jr. He was raised in Ridgewood, NJ, where he developed a lifelong commitment to learning and intellectual growth. He attended Lawrenceville Prep School and went on to Lehigh University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. True to his lifelong commitment to education, he later earned a Master's in Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and an Advanced Professional Certificate in Finance from the Stern School at NYU.

A gifted engineer, Chuck began his career at the Farrel Company in Connecticut, then brought his engineering experience to the family business with leadership roles at Aeroil, New Jersey Machine, and ultimately as president of Muller Machinery. His professional life reflected the values of hard work, integrity, and a relentless commitment to excellence.

Chuck's passions extended beyond his work; he was deeply involved in the arts, sports, and his community. He belonged to the Ridgewood Country Club, the Ridgewood Tennis Club, and the Indian Trail Club. An avid skier, tennis player, and golfer, Chuck embraced a life filled with activity. As a member of the Lotus Club, he also engaged in social and cultural activities. He served on the board of directors of the Helix Center for Interdisciplinary Investigation and, along with Carol, was an active supporter of the arts, particularly classical music. Chuck served as vice chair of the Stecher and Horowitz Foundation and supported the New York Philharmonic, frequently attending patron trips, where Carol served as Patron Chair.

Chuck was passionate about helping others. Through his close friendship with Dr. Robert Berkowitz, he helped build a nationally recognized heart failure program. In 2007, he and Carol established the Heart Failure Fellowship Program at Hackensack University Medical Center, which has funded 17 fellowships to date. This initiative stands as a testament to Chuck's generosity and desire to make a meaningful impact on the world. In 2022, the Schaefer family further honored Dr. Berkowitz's groundbreaking work in heart failure by endowing a chair in Heart Failure and Pulmonary Hypertension at Hackensack.

Above all, Chuck was devoted to his family, especially his beloved wife, Carol, with whom he shared 62 years of marriage. His greatest joy was spending quality time with his family, creating fun, lasting memories together, whether through photography, trips, or simply enjoying each other's company. One of his fondest memories was attending the Institut de Français with Carol, which led to many summers spent in the south of France. These summers, often shared with family, became a cherished tradition, deepening their love for the culture, language, and beauty of the region. Travel was an integral part of Chuck' life, and he delighted in sharing those experiences with Carol, their children, and grandchildren, creating lasting memories across the years.

In addition to his intellectual pursuits, Chuck was known for his compassion and generosity. He touched the lives of many with his kindness and selflessness, from funding fellowships to engaging in thoughtful conversations about the future of the arts, sciences, and healthcare. His legacy is one of community service, intellectual curiosity, and a deep love for his family.

Chuck leaves behind a rich legacy in both his professional achievements and his many contributions to the lives of others. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on through his family, his work, and the many lives he touched.