Richard R. Shaffer

Richard Ray Shaffer, 89, of South Haven passed away peacefully on Friday, Feb. 20, 2026.

Richard was born April 27, 1936, to Raymond and Viola (Curtis) Shaffer in South Haven.

He is survived by his sister, Nancy Zink (Don Johnston) of Allegan, Mich., and four children: Wendy (Douglas) Bolling of Neligh, Neb., Stacy (Larry) Niles of Lawrence, William (fiancée Jessie) Shaffer of Portage, Mich., and Debra (Ronald) Wall of South Haven. He is also survived by 10 cherished grandchildren and 14 loved great-grandchildren.

Richard was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Sandra Shaffer; father, Raymond C. Shaffer; mother, Viola Shaffer (Curtis), and brother, James Shaffer.

Richard served in the Army National Guard from 1955-58 and the U.S. Army Reserve from 1955-63. Richard met his wife, Sandy Auensen, in South Haven. They were united in marriage on July 27, 1963, in South Haven.

Richard was a member of the Michigan Carpenters Union and Millwrights Local #1102 when he worked construction. Richard was also a member of various clubs including the South Haven Moose Lodge #697, the American Legion #49, the VFW #667, the South Haven Rod and Gun Club, the Steelheaders Association and the NRA. Richard was an avid bowler, golfer and fisherman.

Richard was a great hunter and accomplished several trophies, but his favorite hunt was getting a large bull moose in Alaska in 2001. He will be missed dearly by hundreds of family and friends.

A celebration of life is being planned for Richard at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 28, at the South Haven Moose Lodge in South Haven.

To those who choose to leave a memory or condolence, please visit www.starksfamilyfh.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Filbrandt Chapel-Starks Family Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, 269-637-0333.