Obituary of Walter George Schafer, Sr.

Walter George Schafer, Sr., 99 of Somerdale, NJ, formerly of Camden, NJ passed away at home on June 12, 2018 surrounded by his family. 

Walter was born and raised in Camden, NJ.  He is the second eldest of five siblings.  Walter learned how to box and play baseball by his father Frank Schafer, Sr.  Walter was an astute and quick learner.  Walter quit high school at 11th grade to go to work to help support his family.  During this time he worked at  Acme Markets and the shipyard located in Camden.  He also worked for Civilian Conservation Corp along with his brothers Ralph and Frank.  In 1940 he married the love of his life Edna Pauline Whitman.  In 1942 Walter entered the Army Air Corp and was shipped off to war.  While serving his country he was promoted to Sergeant and was missing in action and wounded in action.  Walter was found and got honorable discharge and came home.  Walter got his job back at the shipyard and him and Edna moved to the east side of Camden on Marlton Pike.  It was in that house that he opened his own contracting business, “W.G. Schafer, Inc. Construction Co.”.  His construction employees consisted of friends and family members.  Walter built a lot of homes and buildings in NJ.  After the death of his wife Edna in 1971 he lived with his companion Ida Beecroft until her death in 1999. 

Walter was a great cook, and was always cooking seafood, homemade vegetable soup and German potato salad.  Walter loved his family and loved fishing and going on his boat.  He was a great educator and friend to many.  He was also a great father, grandfather, brother, son and uncle.  Walter was a bit stubborn in his ways but that’s what kept him going. 

Walter is predeceased by his wife Edna Pauline Schafer (Whitman) and Ida Beecroft his companion of 27 years.  He is also predeceased by his siblings Frank, Ralph, Mable, Bucky and Dolly.  Walter is survived by his daughter Jean Marie Schafer and his son Walter G. Schafer, Jr. “Bud”.  Also survived by 4 grandchildren, Charles E. Bigwood, Jr., Cherise C. Bigwood, Chad E. Bigwood, and Christine M. Schafer. He is also survived by 10 great grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren. 

Walter’s motto was “it’s the Schafer’s way, I do it my way.”

Relatives and Friends are invited to Walt’s viewing on Friday, June 22 from 9AM to 11AM at the McGuinness Funeral Home, 34 Hunter St., Woodbury, NJ 08096.  Funeral Service to follow at 11AM.  Interment Eglington Cemetery, Clarksboro, NJ. 

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