Obituary of Gary Michael Schaefer

Gary M. Schaefer ~ 60 Battle Ground, Washington June 22, 1955 ~ September 19, 2015 Gary Schaefer, beloved husband, father and friend to all, was welcomed to heaven by his Savior after a significant cardiac event on September 19, 2015. He was born in Vancouver, Washington, June 22nd, 1955 to parents Philip and Ruth Schaefer . He graduated from Battle Ground High School in 1973 and continued his education at Oregon State University, Spokane Community College and Washington State University where he received his Bachelors Degree in Education. He played football, basketball, and participated in track and field, and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in both high school and college for holding various records, some of which still stand today. Gary married his high school sweetheart, Jani, with whom he shared the next 39 years. Together they raised a son and a daughter while residing the next 30 years in Battle Ground WA. Gary spent many years coaching his kids through basketball and baseball, earning a fine reputation as a great and loved coach. His kids never doubted his loyalty and support whether at their sporting events or music concerts. They could always hear his voice above the crowd. After college Gary’s life long love for fishing landed him a job with G. Loomis Incorporated. For the next 27 years he wore many hats in various aspects of fishing rod manufacturing. He loved his job and was known far and wide for his warm and welcoming presence. In his work travels he forged and maintained life long friendships around the world. When Gary wasn’t working he enjoyed fishing, hunting, clamming, and spending time at the beach. He loved to entertain with good food that he prepared and enjoyed the good conversation to go with it. The good meals he shared were always accompanied by a grandiose story or two. Working in his wood shop became a favorite pastime. He enjoyed remodeling and building many projects for family and friends. He spent many many weekends sharing in the effort to build a beach house in Netarts, Oregon. He also helped design and built the Bethlehem Village for his home church, Living Hope, which will be used for many Christmas seasons to come. Gary is survived by his wife of 39 years, Jani, his son Zack (Kristen) and granddaughter Alaina of Lynnwood, Washington, daughter Kelli (Jeremiah Hayden) of Portland, Oregon, brother Gene (Mary) of San Tan Valley, Arizona, sister Barbara (Bruce) Olsen and nephews Stacy and Jordan Olsen of Yacolt Wa, and special cousin Dave Flesher of Winlock, Washington. A celebration of Gary’s life will be held Saturday, October 10th at 10:30 am at Living Hope Church 2711 NE Andresen Rd. Vancouver, Washington In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Gary’s name to: North Coast Salmon and Steelhead Enhancement Fund P.O. Box 333 Tillamook, Oregon 97141 or Living Hope Church (Cabo Gate Mission) 2711 NE Andreson Road Vancouver, WA 98661