1945
2017
116 South Liberty Street
Orwigsburg, Pennsylvania
Francisco, Calif.
Dennis was born in Pottsville, Pa., on
October 20, 1945, a son of Fern "Nana" A. (Koch) Schaeffer, of Orwigsburg, Pa., and the late Carl A. "Pap" Schaeffer.
He was the husband of Carol A. (Kimmel) Schaeffer. They were married on November 5th, 1966.
He graduated from Blue Mountain High School, class of 1963.
Dennis and his parents always had an extreme passion for everything motorcycles. On March 27, 1967, Dennis and his parents opened a Harley-Davidson dealership in
Orwigsburg, Pa. Fifty years later, Dennis and his mother still passionately ran their business with the rest of their immediate family.
Dennis also loved to ride KTM motorcycles off road so on June 21, 2014, Dennis and his family opened a KTM and CanAm dealership. Dennis could now share his love of
riding with all ages. Whether you are 5 or 105, Dennis could offer you something to ride.
Dennis loved watching motorcycle racing especially AMA flat track races. He also enjoyed sponsoring racers of all ages.
Eliminating neuromuscular diseases was the other
passion in Dennis's Life. He would do anything for his MDA children but his pure joy was giving them sidecar rides and lifting them in the air.
Throughout his fifty years in business, Dennis was
recognized by various organizations including the Harley-Davidson Motor Company, the Better Business Bureau, the Schuylkill County Chamber of Commerce, the
Northeast Manufacturers and Employers Association, Winter Carnival Distinguished Citizen Award, Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), the Boy Scouts of America and many others.
Dennis was a founding member of the Schuylkill County Motorcycle Club. He enjoyed demonstrating his riding skills in local parades with the Schuylkill County Motorcycle Drill Team. He was also a charter member of the Deer Lake Harley Owners Group. Dennis enjoyed ice cream rides and singing "Blue Skies" to his fellow riders.
He was a charter lifetime member of the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) and he received the 2006 AMA Road Rider of the Year Award. Dennis was also a lifetime member of the Harley Owners Group (HOG).
Dennis was also a member of the Orwigsburg Lions Club and was dedicated to his community. In June of 2006,
Dennis was awarded the Citizen of the Year Award by the Lions. He was recently honored as the Celebrity Tractor Pull Champion at the August 2017 Schuylkill County Fair.
Dennis was also devoted to his family and loved to attend the sporting events that his grandchildren were participating in. He was often heard chuckling in the stands and cheering for his kids.
Dennis will be missed by many: family, friends, customers, and his buddy, Peanut, the family yellow lab.
In addition to Carol, his wife of 50 years, and his mother, Fern "Nana," Dennis is also survived by two daughters,
Denise, wife of Brian Calderone; Cherie, wife of Geoffrey Bogotuik; grandchildren: Carleigh Bogotuik, Nate
Calderone and Maggie Calderone.
On Friday, September 15th, there will be a Memorial ride for Dennis followed by a Celebration of Life Service at the Schuylkill County Motorcycle Club. Please join Dennis for his last ride. The service on the Club grounds will begin
approximately at 3:00 p.m. Riders will meet at Schaeffer's Harley-Davidson from noon until 1:00 p.m. at which time the procession to the Club grounds will begin. Anyone wishing to attend the service is welcome to go directly to the grounds at 958 Schuylkill Mountain Road, Schuylkill Haven. All are invited to gather with family, share stories and pay their respects to Dennis. All vehicles are welcome to join the ride.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to
Dennis's beloved charity The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), 1123 Brick Hill Road, Orwigsburg, PA 17961.
Hamilton-Breiner Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., Orwigsburg, is honored to be serving the family.
Interment will be private, at the convenience of the family.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Melissa Burkhart
August 26, 2022
Dennis was always such a kind man who had a smile on his face for everyone! I´ll always remember him this way
Melissa Burkhart
August 27, 2020
My family and I love coming to Schaeffers not only because of our love of all things Harley Davidson, because of the wonderful family atmosphere and just seeing Dennis’s smiling face or just seeing him sitting in his office he never was to busy to say hi and make you feel welcome! He will be truly missed and our thoughts and prayers are with Carol and Nan and all of the Schaeffers family!
Chico Bednar
September 6, 2018
I has been over a year, but I miss the "Big Guy" more then ever. The tears still flow, but the smiles do too.
Joan Decker
October 8, 2017
Sincere sympathy to the Schaeffer family. Keeping you in our prayers. May the kindness of family & friends offer the comfort and love needed. Best & Blessings!
Always - Barry and Joan Sinitsky Decker
Tom Finn
October 1, 2017
Sorry for your loss, i will miss seeing him.
Melissa Burkhart
September 16, 2017
This candle is being lit in your memory Denny,so from the entire Burkhart family we will miss you and may it be nothing but blue skies forever!
Doris Huss
September 16, 2017
So sorry for your loss Carol and family prayers to comfort you in this time and need God bless you and keep you strong hugs
Pat & Tim Donlin
September 16, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. God Bless
Vern Arndt
September 15, 2017
RIP Dennis! Thank you for your many years of service to the community and people in general. You are a pillar to be emulated!
My sincere condolences to the family! Semper Fi!
Vern Arndt
September 15, 2017
So sorry for your loss. With deepest sympathy, Becky & Carl Boltz
Bob & Diane Brown
September 15, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Dennis was a great person with a smile that could light up a room. He will be truly missed!
OUR CAPTAIN
SCMC DRILL TEAM (Ret.)
September 14, 2017
OUR CAPTAIN
Our Captain,
Please lead the way!
Oh, we ought to wish you'd stay one more day.
We will miss your bright soul
That has been shaken and turned cold,
To be lifted to the skies,
Leaving us with teary eyes.
Please Captain, don't go,
The world will miss you so.
Continue your journey,
I know it'll be a great one.
Goodbye for now, but just know,
Our adventures will never be done.
Terri Fuller
September 11, 2017
Carol and family, I am so sorry for you loss. When Ric and Dawn Delaney told me I thought of our trip with Harley Davidson to Europe and the cruise! What a trip we had. Dennis was so wonderful and I am so lucky to have met you both. God bless you and your family during this terrible time. With all my love Terri Fuller Clinton Iowa
David Rhodes
September 11, 2017
I am sorry for your loss. I met him once a few months ago and instantly knew he was a good man.
September 9, 2017
We are in shock, we just learned of Dennis passing, please accept our condolences to Carol, Denise, Cherie and Fern and families. We have alot of memories riding for icecream rides, rally trips, with so many more places.
Harley Bob and CJ Brensinger
Roger Jackson
September 9, 2017
So Sorry to hear of your loss
Denise was a very nice guy ,a good man to talk to, He knew his bikes and always there to give advice or answer your questions. He will be missed by many
Barbara Malewski
September 9, 2017
So sorry to hear this sad news. What a shock.
Just recently shared memories with Dennis and Nana about our many trips from Lavelle on the 1976 Superglide. We enjoyed talking about their small shop and how large the business has grown over the years.
Rest in peace, Dennis.
Mike ans Bev Miller
September 8, 2017
Our hearts go out to the Schaeffer family. Always remember "caps on sideways with silly grin".
Nicholas M Kostishak
September 8, 2017
A man who touched harts of many with open arms.
Now all of our arms are open.
Edward Rusnock
September 8, 2017
Our prayers to the Schaeffer family at this difficult time. I Edward never met a kinder person who was willing to take his time with you and treat you as part of his family when I was buying my bikes. I remember the day when I bought my 3rd bike and I said this is my last bike I'm buying and Dennis looked at me with a smile and said," Why sure Ed." Boy was he right. He will be missed greatly his spirit will be at the Schaeffer Harley Davidson dealership in the eyes of all who loved him. RIP Dennis. God bless.
Tom and Yvonne Siegfried
September 8, 2017
How does one sum up an almost lifetime of knowing someone., someone like Denny? Always a smile., always fun., such a presence. Tom and I graduated with Carol and Dennis from high school. We still talk about him riding his cycle over the grass hill in front of the school until one day the principal caught him and called his dad. The next morning he went to start his bike, wouldn't start. Carl had taken a part out of it!!
We loved you., we miss you:-(.
All our sympathy to those he loved the most.
We know you're riding on the streets of gold in Heaven.
Greg Kerner &family
September 8, 2017
Dennis ,one of the greatest he will be missed
Mike Wiz
September 7, 2017
Condolences to the entire Schaeffer family. I didn't know Dennis personally, but I did get to talk to him a few times when I would be home. Cesare and I would stop down to shop, rent a bike or attend a special event and Dennis would always bust on Cesare and ask where the Pizza was. He was always in a good mood hangin with his Harley family and greeting customers. Rest in peace Dennis and keep it under 100 in Harley Heaven.
Mr.and Mrs.William Kline
September 7, 2017
Our condolences to the Schaeffer family ,may your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Jim &Carol Tierney
September 7, 2017
A sad good-by to my best friend, he will always be remembered as a guy you could depend on condolences to the entire Schaeffer family
Morris Hurwitz
September 6, 2017
My sincerest condolences to the Schaeffer family.When I started riding again after a 25 year hiatus, there was no question who I was going to buy from. From the first day I walked in it was like walking into a family reunion. Dennis prided himself on his business and treated everyone the same, with a genuine smile . We will miss you greatly. Have comfort in knowing everyone you met will never forget you.
Morris "Moe" Hurwitz
Dave Zachar
September 6, 2017
Still cant believe you are gone. We are all going to miss you big guy! I still have the great memories tho....RIP Chief.
2017 Heritage
Dave Haynes
September 6, 2017
My condolences to Carol, Nana,Denise, Cheriton and the extended family of Schaeffer's Harley Davidson. Dennis did a thorough job of explaining features and controls of my new Harley. Rest in peace Dennis. I'm sure Peanuts is looking for you.
Bob Dippel & Alice Stauffer
September 6, 2017
Sorry for your loss. We will miss seeing Dennis at the store. He always had a welcoming smile. He'll be greatly missed.
Big Jim & Debi Snyder
September 6, 2017
You will always live in our hearts and prayers.
Carl & Pat Petzold
September 6, 2017
Dennis left us with an empty place in our lives, but he will always live forever in our hearts. Our sincerest condolences to all of his family, and to all who knew and loved him.
Charlie & Margaret Conrad
September 6, 2017
Deepest condolences on the passing of a great great man. Blessings and comfort to the family, Schaeffer's staff, and all who cherish their Dennis memories <3
VINCENT POANDL
September 6, 2017
Our condolences to the Schaeffer family. Dennis was admired and loved by many. I bought all my new Harleys from him. He did a great job going over the bike with us. He will be truly missed by so many friends and family and patrons of the dealership. God Bless.
Vincent & Jeanette Poandl
Larry Brandon
September 6, 2017
Dennis will be missed , that's for sure. He was so friendly to EVERYONE. I will always look into his office when I walk pass looking for him and Peanuts. My condolences to the family. "RIP"
Suzie Stamm Swavely
September 6, 2017
I am deeply saddened by the loss of Denny Schaeffer...known the family since I was knee high to a grasshopper...my deepest sympathy to Carol, Fern and family.
Al Koncsics
September 6, 2017
Farewell to a very special man. His family owned Harley dealership was a place to go for excellent motorcycle assistance. But, far more than going there for service, it was always like visiting family. Rest in peace Dennis, you will be missed.
Janet Bugg
September 6, 2017
My heart goes out to Carol and the family, Dennis was truly a special man. My thoughts and prayers are with the family in this time of sadness.
Adopt a Pet
September 6, 2017
A Schaeffer's Fashion Show
Joann Slack Hassan
September 5, 2017
Dear Carol Schaeffer and Family,
I am deeply saddened to hear of Dennis's passing. My parents, Joan and Chuck Slack, had become friends of the Schaeffer family through the years with the mutual love and admiration of Harley Davidson. My parents spent many years not just purchasing Harley Davidsons, but getting to know Dennis and his family, who treated my parents like family as well. Through the events over the years that my parents participated in with Dennis and his family and through the sad times as well. Dennis and his family were there for mine. It's been 9 years since my mother passed away, and my father just passed away this April, but I have no doubt as my parents' headstone reads, there's lots of "Riding Harleys in Heaven." Here's a little memory of my parents of their time at Schaeffer's Harley Davidson that I'd love to share and pay tribute to what your dealership represented. Fun times with your Harley "family."
Dave Morrow
September 5, 2017
To Dennis' family, so sorry for your loss. I bought my first big twin at Schaeffer's in 2013 brand new & met Dennis then as he was the last person to go over the entire bike with me before I rode it home. Such a personable man establishing one of the highest rated dealerships in PA. I will miss seeing him there.
September 5, 2017
Nan,Carol,Denise,Cheri,and the Schaeffer family so sorry for your loss.Dennis was a great guy and will be greatly missed. He is with Pap and my uncle Charlie now and riding together again.R.I.P. AND ENJOY THE RIDE sincerely Ralph Falls Jr. Palo Alto Pa.
Stan Strunk
September 5, 2017
RIP
Carlos Rivera
September 5, 2017
From the first day I met Dennis he me feel like were friends for ever. Always took time ask how we were doing and answer any questions we had. So glad to have met Dennis and the gang at Shaeffer's HD. My condolences to the family. Carlos..Lancaster Pa.
Ray,Liz & Tammy Matz
September 5, 2017
A true & great friend that will be missed.
Carol & Wayne Lutsey
September 5, 2017
Our hearts go out to the whole family and Dennis will surely be missed by the whole community. Will always remember his hugs and huge smile.
Dennis and Mary Ann Stamm
September 5, 2017
We have known Dennis from day one when they opened shop. Its heartful that we lost someome like him. We also rode a lot with his father. He was like family to us.We will miss him dearly.
Don & Dolly Noll
September 5, 2017
will always remember the great times with the SCHAEFFER family.
Roger & Alice Strohecker
September 5, 2017
Please accept our sincere condolences to the entire family.
Dorsen Berger
September 5, 2017
rest in peace
Butch & Elaine Hartman
September 5, 2017
Dennis will always be remembered for all the wonderful things he did for his community and county. Remember, he isn't gone, he's just away. Ride safe up there Denny.
Melissa Burkhart
September 5, 2017
The Burkhart family was very sad to hear about Denny, we all knew him and his family for over 50yrs. We send out our thoughts and prayers to the entire Schaeffer family! God bless you brother ride free forever!
Gerry and Joyce Pawlowski
September 5, 2017
Friend, leader, support, that is what Dennis was. We will always remember the good times, the rides, the talks, the ice cream, and the list goes on.....most of all we will remember your kindness and love of life. We will miss you so much but know we will meet again.
Robin Sternberg
September 5, 2017
Condolences to the wonderful and loving Schaeffer family! Dennis was, is and always will be an icon in the motorcycle world as well as the Human Race? His Humanity reached mountains that most of us could only dream of obtaining! Dennis will forever be in our hearts and will never be forgotten! I am and will forever be blessed to have had the honor of knowing this amazing man! RIP dear Dennis...we all love you!
Joe Long
September 5, 2017
You will be Missed.
Craig Stamm & Kristen Fogelman
September 5, 2017
Our hearts ache terribly for the Schaeffer family, the HOG family, the SCMC family, and the community. Dennis was a second father to Craig, always supporting him in his racing and riding. May the memories provide comfort where words cannot, and know that Dennis lives on in all of us in some small way. God Bless the Schaeffer Family!
Marie Reed Marshall
September 5, 2017
Rest in peace to a fellow high school classmate and friend. You left us too soon.
Ralph Schoch
September 5, 2017
So sorry for your loss....may he rest in peace..
Chuck Welsh
September 5, 2017
To the Schaeffer family,
It is not for us to doubt God's plan, why we ask, why a wonderful man like Denny, all we know is that he now resides in heaven where he is a shinning star among all the angels because of the way he lived his life when he was here. I will miss him, he was great classmate, friend and human being. God bless him and his family, may the pain of his loss be short and all the wonderful memories last forever in all our hearts.
Sandra ethan Katzin pyles
September 5, 2017
Still in shock. Will never forget your loving soul and will always remember your big caring heart. I'm sure there's a long line of MD kids waiting for sidecar rides in heaven to keep you busy. We will continue to do whatever we can for the loved ones you left behind. Warmest hugs to the entire Schaeffer family including peanut. Hearts forever broken.
Eddie & Diana Kanowski
September 5, 2017
God has a way of putting special people in our lives. Dennis was certainly one of ours. You are all in our prayers and thoughts.
Albert Root III
September 5, 2017
RIP Dennis. Will miss you at the MDA events. I rented several New bikes for years. Bought items at your business, & will continue. My condolences to the family. Sorry I will miss the Memorial Service. My friends will keep me posed. See you on the other side while riding our Harleys. 63 years of riding is my life & yours.
Cory & Tania Vance
September 5, 2017
You will be greatly missed Dennis, my friend, my boss, and the man that believed in me at 50 years old and gave a shot at a life long dream. Rest In Peace Chief.
Elsie & Robert Heloskie
September 5, 2017
Nana, Carol, Denise, Cheri, we are so sorry for the loss of your son, husband and father. He touched so many lives in so many ways. We will miss seeing him at football games and Schaeffer events. Thoughts and prayers to you all.
LEON STAGER
September 5, 2017
RIP MY FRIEND...
Bill Dallago
Dana Beatty Bill Dallago
September 5, 2017
Very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family!!
SANDY KILLIAN GOLCA
September 5, 2017
Carol,
"The years now seem more like moments ago of when we were all carefree high school kids.
You and Dennis have been Blessed with a good life together, and the best is yet to come as you are reunited in Heaven." Keep your focus on knowing that Jesus is still in control, and will keep you strong and very courageous through the days ahead, and He will keep your heart and mind filled with His perfect peace in the years to come."
Christina Lehman
September 5, 2017
A life put out way to soon you and your family are wonderful, sweet, and kind people my prayers are with you and RIP Dennis you will be greatly missed by all!!!
Lorraine Kurylo
September 5, 2017
Sorry for your loss. May you remember all they good times you have shared.
Ken & Brenda Delaney
September 5, 2017
To Dennis Carol and family,...Dennis will surely be missed by everyone who knew him, we're all sure he and Pap are together again in heaven, ride free my friend.
John Fogg
September 5, 2017
Dennis and family,
It is with saddness I write this,I am glad I got to meet you and your staff a few years ago.wouldnt
buy from anyone else,you will surely be missed
Till we meet again
Beverly & Joe Onuskanich & families
September 5, 2017
Carol, Denise, Cherie & Fern & families,
So sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Andrew and Alycia Gerber
September 5, 2017
It was a pleasure to meet and work with you and your family for a short period of time. My entire family has been praying for the entire Schaeffer family. We wish everyone a time of happy memories as you celebrate the life of a very well loved and respected individual.
greg &karen williams
September 5, 2017
you are going to be missed you made me feel like family my prays are with the family
William Kerper
September 5, 2017
Dennis was a good friend and a welcoming face to the dealership when i would stop in. I was lucky enough to know Pap and him. Im going to miss him greatly he was an awesome man and friend. Enjoy the ride Dennis say hello to all our loved ones.
Your Pal
Gravy
Floyd Fidler Jr.
September 5, 2017
Rest in peace Dennis. You will be missed by many people. You are with our father in heaven now.
September 5, 2017
Our deepest sympathy to our dear friends. He will always hold a special place in our hearts.
Bill and Bridget Whalen
September 5, 2017
You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Vann Pierce
September 5, 2017
Very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family!!
Scott &Ginny Hornberger
September 5, 2017
Dennis was truly a 1 of a kind person. He will be missed by everyone who ever met him. God Bless the Schaeffer family.
Vince Gagliardo
September 5, 2017
Dennis was the kind of guy that would give Santa Clause a run for his money , He was always jolly and giving , a smile on his face at all times and just a very caring person . He will be Greatly missed by everyone who knew him . my sincere condolences to the entire Schaffer family .
John Casner
September 5, 2017
Our condolences to the Family from the Casner Family . We will miss you big guy ! God bless
Raymond Melnick
September 5, 2017
My sincere condolences to the Schaeffer family, may Dennis's memory be eternal.
September 5, 2017
Condolences from our family to yours. Troy & Courtney Krout
Michael Nye
September 5, 2017
With deepest sympathy and prayers for the schaeffer family. Thank you for all you do for everyone that has ever been involved with your family. GOD BLESS you all
Al & Annie Lohr
September 5, 2017
Dennis was a special person, he made you feel like family. Our prayers and sympathy go out to the entire Schaeffer family.
Sherri and Pat Intrepido
September 5, 2017
Deepest sympathy to the Schaeffer family
September 5, 2017
My deepest sympathy to Carol, Nana, Denise and Cheri. Dennis will be greatly missed by all. Kathy Daya
Don(Twig) & Candy Hartwig
September 5, 2017
Our deepest condolences to the Schaeffer family. R.I.P. Dennis...you will be greatly missed !!!
Larry & Diane Zweizig
September 5, 2017
Dennis will be greatly missed. Anyone who met Dennis became a friend. He was a very special person.
Mary Printz
September 5, 2017
My thoughts and prayers are with the Schaeffer family. May you find peace and comfort.
Mary Printz
Larry Schneck
September 5, 2017
Deepest condolences to family may God bless you and your family and give you strength.
Sheila & Jim Golder
September 5, 2017
Dennis will be missed by so many. Such a caring wonderful man. RIP Dennis.
Scott & Denise Romich
September 5, 2017
Deepest sympathy in the loss of Dennis. Such an amazing man who will be missed by his family, employees, customers, and community. RIP Dennis, may you ride a HD in eternal peace.
Judy Merlo
September 4, 2017
Schaeffer Family,
Sorry for your loss. Dennis will be greatly missed. I will always remember him and how kind of a man he was. Thoughts and prayers go out to you. You will remain in my prayers..
Rick Zellman
September 4, 2017
I worked as a mechanic with Dennis and 'Pap at the shop from 1980 to 1987. Their work ethic and professional dedication to their customers impressed me, while providing a stellar model for my advancement in the motorcycle industry (H.D. Vehicle Quality Audit, York Assembly Plant.)... Dennis will always hold a special place in my heart. He was an Icon to myself and many on a personal and professional level. God-speed, Dennis...Thank you for being you.
Bob Petrosky
September 3, 2017
Dennis you will be missed, you always had time for people, May God Bless you.
Terry Orban
September 3, 2017
I just recently had a conversation with Dennis regarding his trip to the 2018 Harley new model show in California, he was looking forward to the show as well as the ride back on a 2018 Ultra. He was a great guy and he will be missed!
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