Garry W. Schaeffer

Garry Schaeffer, 80, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with heart disease and pancreatic cancer. He was born in Macomb, Illinois, to Donald and Berneice Schaeffer, who preceded him in death.

Garry proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, stationed aboard on a communications ship. Following his military service, he settled in Rudolph, Wisconsin. He built a long and respected career as an Engineering Technician and Bridge Inspector for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

Garry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He will be deeply missed. Garry is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Schaeffer. He leaves behind his son, Jason (Kelly) Schaeffer; his daughter, Jodi (Ryan) Hundt; and his stepchildren, Jason (Tammy) Tucker, Jessica Moriwaki, and Justin Tucker. He was a proud and loving grandfather to eight grandchildren: Zach, Anna, Kate, David, Ginny, Kenley, Tori, and Zoe, each of whom brought him great joy and pride.

He is also survived by his brother Richard's wife Elsie Schaeffer and by his nephews, Rick Westphal and Troy Schaeffer.

Garry was an avid outdoorsman who found great happiness in hunting, fishing, camping, and spending time on the water. He was a longtime member of the Wisconsin Rapids Beagle Club and spent many years traveling throughout the Midwest to attend and judge field trials.

Garry devoted many years to coaching girls' basketball. Later in life, one of his greatest joys was cheering on his grandchildren-whether at sporting events, performances, or other activities. He was always proud to support them from the sidelines.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Becky Lempke, Garry's longtime caregiver and dear friend, whose compassion and dedication meant so much to Garry and to the entire family. Special appreciation is also extended to the caring teams at the VA and the Stevens Point ICU for their kindness and support.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Honor Flight in Garry's memory at https://www.honorflight.org/donate/.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, March 23, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Herman-Taylor Funeral Home in Wisconsin Rapids, visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home.

Garry will be remembered for his service, his love of the outdoors and his devotion to family. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the family he loved so deeply.