Richard A. Shafer Obituary

Richard (Dick) A. Shafer, age 86, of Buchanan, Michigan, departed this world on August 18, 2026.

The family is inviting friends and family to North Shore Memory Gardens, 5027 M-63, Coloma, MI 49038, at the mausoleum for a Celebration of Life on Friday, August 28, 2026, at 11:00 A.M., with a brief Memorial Service following at the gravesite.

Richard Shafer was born September 3, 1939, in Benton Harbor, MI, to Warren A. and Dorothy L. (Hanson) Shafer. He graduated from Berrien Springs High School in 1957 and attended Michigan Tech University. He was employed by Clark Equipment Co. in Benton Harbor as a Reliability Engineer and traveled internationally for the company.

Richard married his wife, Janice Damaske, on January 9, 1971, in St. Joseph, MI.

Richard enjoyed basketball, football, snowmobiling, skiing, bowling, and especially traveling throughout the U.S. and Alaska with Jan every chance they could.

Richard is survived by his son, Kory A. Shafer of Buchanan, MI; daughter, Rochelle A. Bishop of TX; grandsons, Kristopher A. Shafer of Traverse City, MI, and Chad D. Shafer (Nikki and great-granddaughter Violet) of Detroit, MI; and granddaughter, Courtney L. Smith of Watervliet, MI. He is also survived by his niece, Tami (Rusty) Brand, and two nephews, Gregg (Carol) Shafer and Mike (Tami Sigman) Shafer.

Richard's parents, Warren and Dorothy; wife, Janice; and brother, George, preceded him in death.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Corewell Health Hospice, 4025 Health Park Ln., St. Joseph, MI 49085 in his name. Those wishing to share a memory of Richard online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com