Donald H. Schaefer

Donald Harold Schaefer, age 86 of Morris, passed away on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at Sanford Health in Fargo, ND.

Don was born on April 2, 1938, to Harold and Vera (Koch) Schaefer in Minneapolis, MN. He attended St. John’s Lutheran School in Maple Grove, MN. Don spent a majority of his childhood in Osseo and graduated from Osseo High School in 1956. He married the love of his life, Edna Erickson on August 18, 1963 and together they raised their three children, Linda, Marlene, and Kevin. Don was a lifelong dedicated farmer working at Osseo Feed Mill, operating a dairy farm for 48 years and raising beef cattle. Don was actively involved with his community- he was a head usher at St. John’s and Good Shepherd, a member of Hegbert Township Board and Swift County ADA. Don was a man of few words but many actions, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. His strong commitment to his family and friends never wavered, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Don enjoyed old time music, especially dancing on Saturday nights. He loved going out for fish fry’s, watching the Minnesota Twins games, and driving in the country. Above all, Don treasured spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great granddaughter, always cherishing the moments they shared together.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Edna; children, Linda (David) Laue of East Grand Forks, MN, Marlene (Paul) Haugen of Zimmerman, MN, and Kevin (Jenny) Schaefer of Alberta, MN; grandchildren, Christopher (Chelsie) Laue of Willmar, MN, Jeremiah Laue of Grand Forks, ND, Sarah Laue of East Grand Forks, MN, Kyle Haugen of Milaca, MN, Kurt Haugen of Wahpeton, ND, and Serena and Echo Schaefer of Alberta, MN; great granddaughter Ophelia Laue; sisters, Lois (Eugene) Marxhausen and Caroline Schaefer; sister-in-law, Kathy Erickson; and many nieces and nephews.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Vera Schaefer, parents-in-law, Ed and Louise Erickson; brothers-in-law, Donald and Orville Erickson; sister-in-law, Marjorie Erickson.

Pedersen Funeral Home in Morris is in the care of arrangements for Don.