Daniel Mark Schafer

Daniel Mark Schafer, age 68, of Upper Arlington, Ohio, passed away following a courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease on December 21, 2024 with his family by his side. He was born on January 13, 1956, in Marietta, Ohio, to Donald Russell Schafer and Helen Maxine (Best) Schafer. He was also deeply loved by his stepmother, Brenda Schafer Hartlage and her husband, Jim. 

On May 1, 1981, Dan married his beloved wife, Cynthia (Van Dyke) Schafer. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter, and adventure, celebrating 43 years of marriage. He was the proud father of two sons, Jeremiah Schafer (Diana Maggard) of Elizabethtown, KY, and Dr. Zachary Schafer (Dr. Carolyn) of Calabasas, CA. Dan cherished being a grandfather to his grandsons Oliver and Connor Schafer, who brought immense joy to his life. Dan was one of seven brothers: David (Houston, TX), Jim (Marietta, OH), John (Palatka, FL), Dean (Humble, TX), Donn (Melissa), (Marietta, OH), and Drew (Houston, TX). He is also survived by numerous nephews and will be dearly missed by his wife’s family.

A 1974 graduate of Marietta High School, Dan grew up attending Sandhill Methodist Church in Reno, OH. He went on to build a successful career in the electrical industry working for McJunkin Corporation, Basic Distribution, Rockwell Automation, and ultimately retiring from Schneider Electric (Square D). 

Dan’s interests were as diverse as they were passionate. He had a deep love for bowling, golf, music, NASCAR, camping, bocce ball, and euchre. In 1977-78, Dan was part of the ABC Association handicap State Champion team and was a longtime member of the Electric Golf League. He also volunteered with the Fore Hope Golf Adaptive Program, where he helped others experience the joy of golf. A highlight of Dan's golfing journey was the privilege of playing on the Old Course at St. Andrews in Scotland, a memory he treasured.

In his generous spirit of giving, Dan’s last act of kindness was to donate his brain to Ohio State University for research aimed at finding a cure for Alzheimer's disease, echoing his commitment to helping others even in death.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Sandhill Methodist Church, Reno, OH, on December 28, 2024, at 3:00 PM, with visitation from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, officiated by his brother John Schafer.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Dan’s memory to the OhioHealth Foundation Fore Hope, 3430 OhioHealth Parkway, Columbus, OH 43202.

He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. His kindness, generosity, and sense of humor will be missed by all who knew him.