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Mark Shaffer Obituary

beloved brother, uncle, cousin and dear friend to many Tucsonians passed away peacefully on January 7, 2023 after a long bout with Parkinson's Disease.  Born in Tucson AZ on September 7, 1952, Mark lived his entire life serving the Tucson community.  He graduated from Tucson High School in 1970 and the University of Arizona:  BA in History and Athletic Coaching ‘74,  and MA in Secondary Education ‘78.  He taught History at Catalina High School from 1977 to 2014 and was also the Trojan's girls and boys swim coach.  He was an avid golfer, a member of the PGA and worked as the First Assistant Golf Pro at Randolph Golf Course from 1982 - 1993.  He was a life time Wildcat fan and season ticket holder for UA football and basketball and a regular patron at Bob Dobbs on 6th Street where he hung out with many of his friends and other Wildcat fans.  He loved his THS class of ‘70 and his attendance at his recent 50th THS reunion was very special to him. Preceded in death by his parents, Gerald Sidney Shaffer and Helen G. Urech Shaffer.  Survived by his brother, Paul F. Shaffer, nephews, William, Kenneth, Jeffery and Sidney Shaffer, niece Amber Lake, great-niece, Samantha Shaffer and many Tucson cousins. Mark's final resting place is next to his parents at South Lawn Cemetery. Per Mark's request "there is not to be a fuss made over me".

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

Published by Arizona Daily Star on Jan. 15, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Mark Shaffer

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Serena Collins

January 5, 2024

Just had a thought about being in his class in highschool. Hoped he was still with us. Great teacher. An even better man. He will be missed.

Jared Morgan

February 12, 2023

We are extremely sorry & saddened by the loss of Mr. Shaffer.

My sister/I both went to Catalina HS & remember Mr. Shaffer as a wonderful man, teacher & coach.

Our prayers & condolences to you all,

Mr. Shaffer, you are a True Trojan & Wildcat!!!!

The Morgan Family

Chris Harrison

January 23, 2023

Mark was a swim coaching buddy of mine for decades. We were from the "old school", and I recall many good memories of our competitions together, and moreover, our reminisces at Bob Dobbs over a dram or two of Irish whiskey. A good guy who gave a great part of his life to others.
Rest well my friend...keep a chair, light, and glass ready for me!
Chris Harrison

Frank Frana III

January 16, 2023

Mark and I were classmates from Sam Hughes Elementary to Tucson High School. I remember his favorite conversation topic was sports. Always learned something interesting talking to him. Sending my sincere condolences to his family.

Bob Dragoo

January 15, 2023

Mark was a true inspiration to many Tucson swimmers and will be fondly remembered by his peers as well.
Rest In Peace, my friend.

Larry K

January 15, 2023

Mark was a fine, dedicated swim coach, He will be missed on the deck and at Bob Dobbs

Kathy Loding

January 14, 2023

My most sincere condolences to your family and friends.
I love you, Mark and will miss you forever. Lodes

David M

January 14, 2023

Great history teacher of mine! You will be missed Mr. Shaffer. My condolences to his family.

Alyssa

January 14, 2023

My condolences to his family! He taught history at my school.

Eleanor Loding

January 14, 2023

a beautiful, caring man! He will be missed by many.

Elvira Q

January 13, 2023

My condolences to his family... He was a great history teacher!!!

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