J. Richard Schaeffer

J. Richard Schaeffer J. Richard Schaeffer, 97, of West Lawn, peacefully completed his journey on Earth on May 3, 2021, in his residence. He was born in Lancaster, a son of the late Ruth (Schultz) and Roy L. Schaeffer. He was predeceased by his wife of 76 years, Ruth P. Schaeffer. He is survived by two children: Barbara A., Sinking Spring, widow of Robert Springer, and Jay R. Schaeffer, Phoenixville, companion of Ellen Hauze; two grandchildren: Kate C. Keifer, wife of Steven, Herndon, VA, and Jed B. Springer, husband of Kristine, Leesburg, VA. He is also survived by five great grandchildren: Maxwell and Madeline Springer, and Jack, Jane, and Olive Keifer. Dick was predeceased by two sisters, Edna Huber and Jeanne Ruth, and two brothers, Raymond Schaeffer and Roy Schaeffer. His sister Ruth Ann Bower resides in San Antonio, TX. He graduated from McCaskey High School, Lancaster, in 1941. Upon graduation, Dick joined the Coast Guard and proudly served as a radioman on the USS Bayfield. He took part in four World War II invasions: D-Day in Normandy on Utah Beach, Southern France, Okinawa, and Iwo Jima. Dick worked briefly for the city of Lancaster before working as a pawnbroker for Selfon Pawn Shops in Lancaster and Reading. He became a manager at Kay Jewelers and opened new stores in Hagerstown, MD, and Wilkes Barre, PA, before moving to the Reading area in 1960 where he was employed at Whitman Jewelers. He became registered as a Certified Gemologist while working at Arthur Schwemmer Jewelers and eventually became president and co-owner. He retired in 1985 as owner of Diller’s Jewelry Store in West Reading. Dick was always involved in his community. His alma mater, McCaskey High School, had a swimming pool and he was surprised to find no high school in Berks County had a pool. He spearheaded the campaign to build the first pool in the county at Wilson High School, and then served for many years on their Building Authority. He became an active volunteer, contributor, and supporter for his children’s’ many activities. He joined Bausman UCC in Wyomissing in 1961 and was a faithful member who served on many committees and Consistory. He was a Mason and member of Lodge No. 62 in West Reading. He loved spending summers at Ocean City, NJ, with his family, and he and Ruth traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe. His love of family, concern for others, unflinching integrity, and devotion to Ruth will always be remembered. The family extends heartfelt appreciation and love to the team of devoted caregivers who faithfully cared for Ruth and Dick the past three and a half years. Bayada Home Health Care offered compassion and support in Dick’s final weeks. Relatives and friends are invited to attend Dick’s Celebration of Life service to be held at Bausman UCC, 1064 Penn Avenue, Wyomissing PA 19610, on Tuesday, May 11, 2021 at 11:00 am with Pastor Mark Johnson officiating. The family will greet guests from 10:00-11:00 at the church. Due to limitations caused by the pandemic, seating for the service will be limited. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Dick’s name to Bausman UCC at the address above. The Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed at www.kuhnfuneralhomes.com.