Lawrence Albert Schaefer

1949 - 2024

Lawrence "Larry" A. Schaefer passed away peacefully on July 22, 2024 at his home in Napa, CA at the age of 75, after a 12-year battle with Parkinson's Disease.

Born on April 14, 1949, in Valley City, Ohio, Larry was known for his infectious smile and laughter, traits he passed on to his three beloved sons. His final weeks were spent with all his sons and their significant others, filled with laughter, singing, and reminiscing.

Larry honorably served in the U.S. Navy as a Fire Control Technician-Missiles from 1967 to 1973. He served aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Buchanan (DDG-14) based in San Diego. During his service, he participated in multiple WESTPAC cruises and completed three tours on the gun line in Vietnam. After his separation from the Navy, Larry moved to Napa in 1974 and began working at Mare Island Naval Shipyard. In 1978, he earned an associate degree from Napa College and soon after started working at the Napa Sanitation District as an electrical/mechanical maintenance technician, dedicating 21 years before retiring in 1999.

In retirement, Larry embraced his passion for woodworking. He enjoyed repairing and refinishing antique furniture. Known for his handiness, (he proudly considered himself "a jack of all trades, but master of none") he also enjoyed utilizing his skills to help others. Later in retirement, Larry volunteered at the Napa Valley Wine Auction, forming many lasting friendships. A dog lover, Larry was the best papa to his beloved furry companion, Luke, and several "grand pups," some of whom are waiting for him across the rainbow bridge.

Larry's sarcastic, hilarious, and dry sense of humor, combined with his kind spirit and honest nature, made him beloved by all who knew him and were fortunate to call him a friend. He expressed many times what he valued most was raising three sons well.

Larry is survived by his sons, Nick, Ryan (Angela), and Chris (Alisha); his sisters, Brenda (Don) Goodwin, Teri Schaefer (Vivian), Kim (Jeff) Horwedel, Cindy (Jack) Lane, Sandie (Thom) Amersbach, and Lisa (Michael) Lindauer; his brothers, Rick Schaefer and Gregory Schaefer; and former spouses Annie Schaefer and Victoria Smith. He also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Marjoe Schaefer; his sister, Kristine, and her husband, Chris Carver; and his brother-in-law, Michael Lindauer.

Larry's memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A celebration of life for Larry will be held at Filippi's Pizza Grotto in Napa on September 21st 2024 at 1:00pm, where family and friends are invited to come together to honor his memory and share the joy he brought into their lives.