Charles W. Schaeffer

Charles W. Schaeffer, 76, of Elizabethtown, passed from this life into the next, on Tuesday, June 30, 2020, at the Masonic Village, Elizabethtown.

Born in Myerstown, PA, he was the son of the late Ralph and Grace (Hunsicker) Schaeffer. Charlie is survived by his wife of 40 years, Phyllis, and his three children, Brian, Beth, and Greg.  He was one of five children: Betty, married to James Rittle; Shirley, married to James Davis; Paul, married to Tracy Schaeffer; and the late Cindy, married to Steven Hawbaker.  His siblings always commented that Charlie was the “favorite child”, and he is now reunited with his parents.
He was a proud veteran of the PA Air National Guard, having served his country for 34 years.  He served in several active military campaigns, most recently, Operation Desert Storm.

Charlie was a longtime member of Saint Paul’s United Methodist Church, Elizabethtown. He was also a member of Williamson Lodge #307 F&AM, Abraham C. Treichler Lodge #682 F&AM, the Valley of Reading Scottish Rite, Sell Chapel Choir, and the Gentlemen, a holiday singing group at Masonic Village. He had a beautiful singing voice, and a gift for remembering lyrics to songs.

Charlie was an Advisor for Elizabethtown DeMolay, a local Masonic youth group, for over 20 years.  He was invested with the Cross of Honor, the highest honor given for service as an Advisor; and the Legion of Honor, for outstanding service to God, to country, and to DeMolay.  He was also recognized as Advisor of the Year in Pennsylvania DeMolay.

He graduated from Myerstown High School in 1961, and was elected Class President.  He made a number of lifelong friends, and loved staying in close contact with his classmates, helping to organize quarterly lunches and yearly reunions.  Charlie relished these social outings, and always took the time to visit with each classmate, making each person feel welcome.

Charlie was strongly devoted to his family.  He was a loving husband, and would do anything in his power for his wife, Phyllis.  The two of them enjoyed many long heart-to-heart conversations.  In addition, he had a wonderful sense of humor, and many of their days involved laughter.  Charlie also cared deeply about his children, and was a kind, gentle man through his final days.

He always enjoyed traveling, particularly cruises.  He and Phyllis went on several, including his favorite one, to Alaska.  Most recently, they went to Myrtle Beach each winter.  Charlie enjoyed that peaceful environment, eating great food, strolling along the beach for shells, and gazing through his binoculars.

A private committal service will be held at the convenience of the family in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville, PA with full military honors.  A public celebration of Charlie’s life will be held when large gatherings are possible. Arrangements have been entrusted with the Miller-Finkenbinder Funeral Home & Crematory, 130 North Market Street, Elizabethtown, PA  17022, 717-367-1543.

In lieu of flowers, contributions would be appreciated for the Charles and Phyllis Schaeffer Scholarship, administered by the PA Masonic Youth Foundation, 1244 Bainbridge Road, Elizabethtown, PA, 17022.

Condolences and memories may be shared at: www.FinkenbinderFamily.com

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