Search by Name

Search by Name

Charles Schaefer Obituary

CHARLES G. SCHAEFER Charles G. Schaefer - truly a man who never met a stranger - died June 1 in the loving arms of his wife Donna at the Lower Cape Fear Hospice after a courageous battle with Glioblastoma cancer. Charlie - as everyone knew him - moved to Wilmington in 2007 and worked as the co-director of the Cameron Executive Network program in the Cameron School of Business at UNCW. He proudly served on the Investment Roundtable Board and his devotion to volunteer work earned him the James R. Leutze Volunteer of the Year Award in 2015. His leadership skills made him the perfect fit as president of the British Motor Club of the Cape Fear. With Donna, Charlie also volunteered at the Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College. Charlie was a long time resident of New Jersey and spent his entire career working on Wall Street as an international bond salesman, retiring from Deutsche Bank. He was passionate about classic cars and spent many weekends working on them. Charlie enjoyed landscaping in his yard, taking his boat to the ocean during the summer, and skiing in the winter. But most of all, he loved friends, those he had just met and those he knew for years. Charlie always felt blessed to find his soulmate and best friend in Donna. They were married for 28 years. Their love and care for each other will live beyond this lifetime. He was a wonderful father and role model - incredibly supportive of his three children, Jennifer Molnar (Mike), of Ocean, NJ; Christopher (Kelly), of Newtown, PA; and Justin (Crystal), of Harrisburg, PA. His love surrounded his 11 grandchildren, Kira, Brooke, Morgan, Addison, Derek, Ashley, Colby, Emma, Jack, Jackson, and Lucas. He enjoyed taking them to the beach, teaching them to surf, and driving them around - fast - in his cars. Charlie was born August 1, 1949 in Brooklyn, NY. His parents were Charles and Genevieve Schaefer. He attended Catholic grade and high school and graduated with a degree in management and economics from St. John's University. He was affectionately known as "Kip" to his family. In addition to his wife, children and grandchildren, he is survived by two sisters, Barbara, of Langhorne, PA; Patricia, of Harleysville, PA; a brother, Michael, of Chalfont, PA and many cousins, nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at Andrews Market Street Chapel, 1617 Market Street, Wilmington, on June 15th, beginning with a small welcoming reception at 10 a.m. followed by a service at 11. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to help fund brain cancer research at Duke University's Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center. Condolences may be left at www.andrewsmortuary.com Andrews Market Chapel

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Wilmington Star-News on Jun. 10, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Charles Schaefer

Not sure what to say?





Dee Tucci

July 3, 2018

Donna, There are no words or a magical wand that can take away your pain of losing your best friend, soulmate and partner for life. So I will continue to pray for you Donna that you will find comfort and peace knowing how blessed you were to have shared so many wonderful years with him. I can still hear his voice and see his never ending smile. I have so many things I am grateful to of had Charlie in our family. He was the best husband that my sister Donna could of ever had and I will always remember him walking me down the aisle to marry Neil. He truly was a part of making it one of my happiest days. I will miss you until we meet again. Love you for always

Neil and Dee Tucci

July 2, 2018

He was our brother-in-law, but Charlie was really our brother. For over 30 years Charlie gave us some off the most memorable times together. The world is a lesser place without Charlie. In his own way, Charlie would find the craziest ways to make you laugh. Sometimes at his own expense (i.e. our trip to Cape May). That will always be one of the funniest trips ever!!! He was my ski partner in Colorado. Here he picked up his nickname with us as Cha Cha.
We hope that he has now found peace as he enters his journey into the afterlife. He will forever be missed, but never forgotten. Charlie, my we all be together one day and share all the memories of friends and family. Safe journeys, we love you.

Lisa Newcomb

July 2, 2018

Dear Aunt Donna,

I wish that I were able to spend some time with you and Uncle Charlie but I look forward to hearing even more loving memories of him than what Ive already heard from Justin. Hell live on in his influence on others, like Justin who is such a great man because he had a wonderful uncle like Charlie. We love you very much and Im so happy to be a part of this beautiful family.

Thinking of you always,
Lisa

Justin McMichael

July 2, 2018

Words wont ever do this justice but Ill always remember our holiday parties and summer visits to the north jersey house and the garage that seemed so giant when I was young and the sports cars and the motorcycle.the boat trips uncle Charlie let me drive the boat when I was probably way too young but it was awesome. I remember those times like they were yesterday. Ill remember the encouraging phone calls I received my first semester away at college as well. I never like to dwell on the sad times and inevitably we always will at some point . Families pull together in hard times and instead of mourning we remember the many positives and good memories we all had with Uncle Charlie because those are the feelings that last.

love and gratitude always

Lisa Mindick

July 2, 2018

Dear Auntie Donna,
I know this is the hardest thing you will ever go through and I'm so sorry for your loss. Uncle Charlie was an amazing man, I'm so blessed to have had all my summers in New Jersey. I have so many great memories to hold on to. He is definitely the funniest person in all my memories growing up. I hope your many memories and knowing you are the best wife he could have asked for help you now. Please let all the wonderful things you hold dear in your heart surround you right now and give you some comfort. Thank you for giving me such an Amazing Uncle, he will be missed immensely. My heart breaks for Justin, Chris and Jennifer but I'm so glad most of the grandchildren got to grow up with his love and humor. They are so lucky to have you two as grandparents. I wish my boys had more time to get to know him and have my same memories. We are all here for you and love you. I know you are strong enough to heal from this, please hold on to your family and friends for support. Love Lisa

Jan Tarabula

July 2, 2018

We will miss you Charlie more then words can say ...
Please watch over Donna and guide her and give her strength to get through this unbareable loss . You were a true fighter and Donna never leaving your side for a moment .
The true meaning of Love and devotion .
You will be in our hearts forever.

Joanne Tarabula

July 2, 2018

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always. Charlie you touched so many lives in so many ways. The one life you touched was my son's. I will never forget and I will always be so grateful that you were such a wonderful mentor to him when attending college. You will forever be missed. While you are in eternal life now watch over Donna. All your loved ones have the best angel, you earned your wings a long time ago. You will always be missed and we love you very much. You fought so hard. Wrap your angel wings around all that love you and until we see you again, your always in our hearts and memories.

Dick Tupper

June 28, 2018

Donna: I was so sorry to hear about Charlie. I got e-mails from several of our Crew Team from St. John's. He was special to all of us. We meet on our first day of classes at
St. John's. He and Wally Barton and I we reading about Crew tryouts and we all went to the meeting. Spent the next 4 years as great friends. The world will miss him and his smile.

June 27, 2018

Dear Donna, Sorry for the late message to you. I had just recently heard of your loss. You guys were friends never forgotten although we had not seen you in some time. I will always remember Charlie from working in NY and the car club here in Jersey. He was such a joy to everyone he met. It's hard to understand why wonderful people have to leave us so soon, heaven is a better place now with Charlie there. God bless Charlie, may he RIP. Our loving thoughts to you and your family.

Doug & Carmen (Atlantic Highlands, NJ)

June 27, 2018

Charlie was my friend and crew mate; one of the "Boys in the Boat". Everyone liked Charlie. What was not to like, great looks, attitude,sense of humor on and on.
My wife Gloria and I visited Donna and Charlie some time ago. Thanks again for your hospitality and friendship.I will always remember my fellow oarsman Charlie.
Paul Robinson SJU Crew 1968

Cynthia and Dick Horgan

June 15, 2018

Dear Donna and Family. Our hearts go out to you at this time of tremendous loss. Charlie was a very special man, with a smile that always put a smile on your face also when you saw him or spoke to him. In passing your house on the way to our home, for a long time we have said a prayer for his recovery. That was not meant to be but we will continue to say a prayer when passing for you Donna and the rest of the family. We know the times ahead will be difficult but also know that the love you shared will sustain you and the memories of life with Charlie will always be with you all.

Tom Britt

June 15, 2018

I met Charlie through volunteering together at The Wilson Center. Although I didn't get to know him very well, I had many talks with he and his Wife, Donna, at the center. Charlie was always very nice and polite during the times at the Wilson Center. My deepest condolences go out to his family and friends. Especially to his wife Donna.

Sara and David Kesler

June 15, 2018

Donna, Charlie was a truly special person. He made every effort to make people feel important and went above and beyond to offer help and support in any way he was able. He greatly impacted my life as well as the lives of so many others. I saw this firsthand through his work as a mentor. We are praying for your peace, healing, and comfort as you mourn and process the loss of your sweet husband.

Lloyd Rothschild

June 14, 2018

Dear Donna and family,
Our hearts and thoughts go out to you during this difficult time. Please know that Charlie will be remembered by all who knew him and he will be deeply missed.
Much love,
Lloyd, Helene, Caitlin and Mikaela

Fran McCann

June 14, 2018

Donna, Charlie was such a sweet and gentle man. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Forever in friendship.

Kat McGrath

June 14, 2018

I am sorry I cannot join your service tomorrow morning. I thought long and hard about what I should do. I am scheduled as volunteer at Guest Services at The Wilson Center from 10 to 12. If I bailed out anytime this week, I know the shift would not get covered. So, I am dedicating the shift to Charlie's memory.
Although I knew him briefly, I could just tell my fellow Jersey Person was a man of honor and "all around great guy." He will be missed. His memory will be cherished. Today and always, may loving memories bring you peace, comfort, and strength.

Kathy Behr

June 14, 2018

Donna and Family: Charlie was a good friend and mentor to many, that is how I met him. He took me on a tour of UNCW, and encouraged me to become a CEN mentor. He saw that I was looking for a place to contribute my career skills and become involved, and brought CEN to me. Charlie always encouraged CEN mentors, CEN mentees, and any friend who needed him, he was a very spiritual and kind person who seemed to know when someone needed him. Or a program in Wilmington or UNCW needed him, he gave of himself to improve organizations and people's lives here in Wilmington. He was an outstanding person, outstanding mentor, outstanding friend. He will be missed by us all as we go about our daily activities with CEN, Investors Roundtable, and volunteer organizations. May you, Donna, and your family find comfort in the fact that you were central in his life, and that he brought joy and commoraderie to his friends and colleagues. My condolences. Kathy Behr, CEN mentor

William Burkimsher

June 13, 2018

Charlie is and was down to earth, funny and a good friend. His time was spent helping and improving other's lives, making them feel like a friend he knew all his life . Generous and kind, willing to his give time and effort for a friend the car club or school. Many will miss him. His wife Donna was his best friend and soul mate, God bless you and comfort you Donna. I will remember his humor and inner strength and what a beautiful couple you were.

Edward Dixon

June 13, 2018

Dear Donna, I was so sorry to hear of Charlie's passing. He was not only a great colleague, but also a good friend. I will fondly remember our Irving Securities days while we were also neighbors in Rumson. Plus I never pass a classic Jag without thinking of him. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Charlie and your family. Take care and God Bless.

Rick Maher

June 12, 2018

I am so sorry to hear of Charlie's passing. He was a good man and a great partner for Donna -- who, I know, cared for him like no one else could have during his illness. My sincere condolences to Donna and the entire family. God bless.

Donna & Johnny Coulson

June 11, 2018

Dear Donna & Family: We will truly miss Charlie in our community circle both at Wilson Center and UNCW CEN. He was a special person and we really feel his loss. Our hearts go out to your family at this sad time. He was a trooper all the way. If you need help with anything going forward, please let Johnny or I know and we're there for you.

Bill and Kathryn Graham

June 10, 2018

We are longtime friends and admirers of Charlie. He was always thoughtful, kind and competent in any task we worked on together in community activities. We miss him very much and regret that a long planned trip overseas will prevent our attending his Friday service. We will be there in spirit. When Charlie first became ill, his entire concern was how hard this was going to be for Donna. Our hearts go out to Donna, and we send our deepest sympathy to her and all of the family.

Ercan Celik

June 10, 2018

Charlie, thank you for all youve done, going above and beyond at every chance. You will be missed as a wonderful person today, tomorrow and always. Sending you strength, Donna.

Donna & Johnny Coulson

June 9, 2018

Donna & Family: Our ♡'s are with you at this sad time. It was an honor & a privilege to know Charlie the past 4 years @ UNCW & Wilson Center. I'm smiling that two Brookkynites also landed up in Rumson & Wilmington.

Please let us know what we can help you with going forward. You are among friends who care deeply. .

Kathleen Bender

June 8, 2018

I am so glad that I met y'all!! It was so fun working at Wilson with you. Brave soldier welcome home!!! Prayers for family Charlie and Donna! RIP!!

Lorraine Collura

June 8, 2018

Getting to know you and Charlie has been a blessing for my family. When Russell asked Charlie to become his mentor at UNCW a friendship formed. Charlie was so supportive of Russell! It was so nice to see you, Charlie, Russell and Janine enjoying each others company outside of UNCW. It wasnt just about being his mentor, it was about a friendship between 4 people. What a blessing. Charlie has impacted so many lives and he has been a blessing to so many. Prayers for you and your family especially during this difficult time. God will watch over you and your family and help you through it. Charlie will always be with you. Remember to hold on to all of your wonderful memories ❤

Judy Heath

June 8, 2018

So sorry for your loss.May you find peace and comfort in the days ahead knowing he is with the Lord.Cherish all the memories and love shared until you are reunited in heaven.Charlie was a remarkable man and will be truly missed.

Edward DiPaul

June 8, 2018

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

John McMichael

June 8, 2018

Charlie thank you for being a mentor and friend to my son. For that you will always be in my heart. Donna my thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. Unfortunately I know exactly what you are going through. If there is anything I can do please do not hesitate to contact me. Rest in peace Charlie. You were a great man

Richard Mattern

June 8, 2018

]Donna, my wife and I send our condolences and prayers to you and your family. It was a pleasure to have met Charlie a few times over the past 10 years. The first couple times were at the Suffern High School Class of '68 40th and 45th Reunions. The last time we met was in July, 2016 when my wife and I along with Donna and Charlie and 2 other classmates and their husbands met for an afternoon luncheon.
May the Lord hold Charlie in the palm of His hand. Rest in peace my friend.

Liz Walker

June 8, 2018

Such an incredible man. My family will cherish our memories and miss him forever.

Showing 1 - 32 of 32 results

Make a Donation
in Charles Schaefer's name

Memorial Events
for Charles Schaefer

Jun

15

Memorial Gathering

10:00 a.m.

Andrews Mortuary and Crematory - Market Street Chapel - Wilmington

1617 Market St., Wilmington, NC 28401

Jun

15

Memorial service

11:00 a.m.

Andrews Mortuary and Crematory - Market Street Chapel - Wilmington

1617 Market St., Wilmington, NC 28401

Funeral services provided by:

Andrews Mortuary and Crematory - Market Street Chapel - Wilmington

1617 Market St., Wilmington, NC 28401

How to support Charles's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Charles Schaefer's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more