Robert Shaffer

Robert “Bob” Calvin Shaffer, age 99, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 21, 2025. He was born July 5, 1925, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Benjamin and Faythe (Feazelle) Shaffer. Bob graduated from High School in Detroit in 1944. Soon after graduation he joined the United States Navy and proudly served his country during WWII where he was part of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Mediterranean campaigns. After his honorable discharge from the Navy in 1946, Bob went on to study engineering for a couple of years at Wayne State University. He married the love of his life, Isabel (Gall) Shaffer, whom he celebrated 57 years of marriage with and raised their two sons together, prior to her passing away on March 4, 2006. Bob was the Plant Manager at Lifetime Door Company in Livonia, Michigan, and also worked at Steelcase’s Stow and Davis wood division in his later years. He was an excellent musician and played his Trumpet throughout his tour while in the Navy. He most cherished his time playing with the Socialaires Band which played weekly for dances at the Casino Club along with numerous other venues such as Nursing Homes, GVSU etc.. In addition, he played with the Grand Rapids Symphonette, Calder and the Senior Neighbors bands. He enjoyed wood working spending countless hours in his wood shop which ultimately led to his career path. In his later years he enjoyed building and flying remote control airplanes and was a member of the AMA Academy of Model Aeronautics along with the Michigan Chapter of the Destroyer Escort Sailors Association. He most enjoyed just spending time with his family and many dear friends which enriched his life greatly up until his final days. Bob was also a member of the Ada Congregational Church where he proudly played his horn during various services. Survivors include his two sons, Gary (Sharlene) and Glenn (Cheryl) Shaffer; four grandchildren, Jennifer Shaffer, Emily Shaffer, Gene Barshney, and Laura (Mark) Malcom; and nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Isabel; his parents; and two brothers, Roger Shaffer and William “Bill” Shaffer. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 21, 2025, at Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, 3627 Linden Avenue S.E. at 36th Street (one block west of Eastern Avenue), Grand Rapids, where a memorial service will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Rick Dykema officiating and a small luncheon to follow. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Sunset Manor and to Corewell Health Hospice for the great care, comfort, and help they gave throughout the past year and his final days. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be given to Sunset Manor or Corewell Health Hospice. (click the link below to donate online) To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Bob’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory or photo, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Robert Shaffer, please visit our flower store.