Vincent "Vince" Joseph Schafer

Vincent “Vince” Joseph Schafer 59 passed away peacefully on April 20 at home with his family by his side. Vince had battled cancer for 15 and a half years. He was determined to fight to the end, keeping a positive attitude while continuing to work and enjoy life to its fullest. Vince was born May 14, 1964 in Mt Pleasant Michigan to Geraldine (Streng) and Richard Schafer of Beal City. Vince is one of 6 siblings. Lucinda Stancato (Perry) of Colorado Springs, Kurt Schafer (Kelly) of Weidman, Kim Huber (Don) of Beal City, Dottie Norris (Pat) of Midland and Michelle Hunter (Jeff) of Gaylord. Vince grew up in Beal City and attended St Joseph Catholic School before going on to Beal City High School. Vince graduated in 1983 and went to work with his brother building houses. Vince took an interest in electrical work and moved to Traverse City Michigan in 1989 where he worked as an electrician for Peninsula Electric. In 1990 Vince met his soul mate and love of his life, Stacy Veit from Rosebush. They were married on July 4, 1998, at Christ the King Catholic Church in Acme MI. They were blessed with 3 beautiful children Chloe, 24 of Lansing, Isaac, 21 of Traverse City, and Sophia, 19 of Traverse City. Family was everything to Vince. He instilled fundamental values and traditions in the kids. He taught them that hard work is not a choice but a reality. Vince ventured out starting his own construction business in 1996. His love for woodworking had become his lifelong career. His attention to detail and having a skilled hand set him apart from many others. His clients adored him as well as his craftsmanship. Although Vince loved his job, he found time to enjoy with his family and friends. Taking family vacations every year was imperative to reconnect with his family. He always said, “Work hard play hard”. He loved snowmobiling, riding motocross, riding his side-by-side, hunting, and fishing. The family deer camp was not just a place you go November 15th, it became a refuge for making great memories with family and friends all year long. This was his “special place”. He also belonged to a fishing group that would once a year for a week of relaxation, laughs, and stories. Vince was such a gentle soul. He always looked out for everyone else before himself. He was loved and admired by so many. His memory and contagious smile will live on forever. He will be missed for years to come but his legacy and memory will live on. Vince is survived by his loving Wife, Children, Siblings, nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and countless amazing friends. Vince's family would like to thank Dr. Kohler, Dr. Ruch, Dr. Forster, and their nurses Mel, Karen, and Kathy for the excellent care Vice received throughout his battle. We couldn't have done it without them. Visitation will be held from 4-7pm with a Rosary and sharing time at 7pm on Wednesday, April 24, 2024. Mass will be held at 12:30 on Thursday, April 25, 2024 at St. Francis Catholic Church with a visitation held beginning at 11:30. A luncheon will also be held following the Mass. The Rev. Kenneth Stachnik will officiate. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Vincent J. Schafer Memorial Trade Scholarship c/o Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 6th Street, Traverse City, MI 49684. Kindly share thoughts and memories with his family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.

Vincent "Vince" Joseph Schafer

May 14, 1964 - April 20, 2024