Richard Schafer

Richard Schafer, 70, beloved Husband, Father, and Papa, passed away on February 7, 2015. He was born on March 13, 1944 in Silver City, NM, to William and Evelyn Schafer. After graduating from Deming High School, and receiving his Bachelor's degree from Western New Mexico University in 1967, he moved to Albuquerque. He received his Master's degree from the University of New Mexico in 1971. Richard taught Social Studies for 31 years at Polk Middle School, retiring in 1999. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Ellen; son, Matthew (Yvonne); daughter, Jennifer (Allen) Karspeck; granddaughters, Molly Schafer and Kendall Karspeck; brothers, Bill Schafer and Ron (Pat) Schafer; mother-in-law, Mary E. Jacobs; sisters-in-law, Carolyn (Ben) Rodriquez and Linda (Jerry) Heyer; brothers-in-law, Orlando (Luanne) Montoya, Michael Montoya and Don Montoya; aunt, Pat Fletcher; many special nieces, nephews, and cousins; and beloved dogs, Kali and Tucker. He is preceded in death by his parents; and sisters-in-law, Charlotte Montoya Trujillo and Barbara Schafer. A public viewing will be held at 5:00 p.m. until the rosary begins at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 11, 2015 at FRENCH - Wyoming. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. also at FRENCH - Wyoming. Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given in Richard's honor to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, or The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of New Mexico. FRENCH - Wyoming 7121 Wyoming Blvd. NE (505) 823-9400