John D. Schaefer, 81
Sartell
Feb. 1, 1944-March 6, 2025
John D. Schaefer, 81, of Sartell died March 6 at the St. Cloud Hospital.
His funeral was held March 11 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Sartell. The Rev. Ronald Weyrens officiated. Burial will be at the St. Francis Xavier Parish Cemetery at a later date.
Schaefer was born Feb. 1, 1944 in St. Cloud to Alex and Jennie (Staneart) Schaefer. He lived in the Sartell area most of his life and was a member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. He married Karen McDougle on April 11, 1970 at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church in St. Cloud. He was the bartender at the Municipal Liquor Store in Sauk Rapids and also worked in the city maintenance department for more than 30 years, retiring in 1995.
Schaefer liked watching dirt races, NASCAR, fishing and collecting pop cans. He was a strong-willed and determined German who also led a simple and humble life. He liked to spend time with his dogs, Roscoe and Chester, who were his constant companions. John loved spending time with family and friends, especially his friend, Dick.
Survivors include the following: his wife of 54 years, Karen, of Sartell; children, Corey of St. Cloud, Jason (Ramona) of St. Cloud, Shawn (Kristin) of St. Cloud; grandchildren: Joshua, Alex and Mackenzie; siblings, Alex (Lynda) of Sauk Rapids, Farron (Cindy) of St. Cloud, Delbert of Dawson and LouAnne (Michael) Simon of St. Joseph.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jerome; and an infant sister, Mary.
Obituary and guest book available online: www.williamsdingmann.com.
