Douglas J. Schaefer

Douglas J. Schaefer of West Bend died on Tuesday, December 24, 2024 at The Kathy Hospice at the age of 93 years. He was born January 11, 1931 in Wauwatosa. As a long-time resident of the West Bend area, he attended local schools, graduating from West Bend High School with the Class of 1949.
He then enlisted into the United States Army and served during the early days of the Korean Conflict. Following his discharge, he returned to the West Bend area.
For many years, he worked at Gehl Company, and later at Control Products Corporation in Grafton. Following his retirement, he kept active by driving for Johnson School Bus and volunteering for Meals on Wheels and Interfaith Caregivers.
He was a member of St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Parish, Fr. Casper Rehrl Council #1964 Knights of Columbus and Fred A. Schaefer Post #1393 VFW, and was an avid golfer.
On September 10, 1988, he was united in marriage to Carol (nee Schams) Leinfelder in West Bend.
Survivors include his wife Carol; two sons Tom (Vicki) of Scottsdale, AZ and David of Hyde Park, NY; two grandchildren Hilari (Grant) and Alexandre; one great-grandson Tommy; five step-children; ten step-grandchildren; many step-great-grandchildren; one sister Lori Dollhopf of Peshtigo; grand-dog Hap; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his mother Virginia Schaefer, his daughter Lori, three sisters Rachel Schloemer, Charlotte Reindel and Darlene Nehrbass and one brother Ron.
Memorial services will be held Tuesday, January 28, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. at the Schmidt Funeral Home in West Bend with Rev. Jacob Strand officiating. The family will greet visitors from 10:00 a.m. until a Knights of Columbus prayer service at 11:20 a.m.
The Schmidt Funeral Home in West Bend is serving the family. If you would like to leave a message of comfort and condolence please visit www.schmidtfuneralhome.com