Clarence E. Schaeffer

Clarence E. "Mike" Schaeffer, 91, of Reading, died peacefully at home, September 27, 2011.

He was the loving husband of Ruth W. (Long) Schaeffer whom he married November 29, 1947.

Born February 25, 1920, in Reading, he was a son of the late Harry S. and Carrie (Adams) Schaeffer.

Mike was employed as a welder with Dana Corporation for 34 years, retiring in 1983. After his retirement he was employed as a custodian with St. Ignatius Schools for 10 years.

He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He served in the Atlantic and Pacific Campaigns.

Mike was a founding member of Hillside Swimming Association and a member of Goodwill Beneficial Association, Muhlenberg Township.

He was also a member of One United Church of Christ, Kenhorst.

Surviving, in addition to his wife, are his two children: Michael H., husband of Sharon A. (Ort) Schaeffer of Lancaster and Laurie E. (Schaeffer), wife of Jeffrey R. Biehl of Alsace Township.

Other survivors include five grandchilden: Jennifer L. (Schaeffer), wife of Andrew Deblase of Muhlenberg Township; Christopher P. Schaeffer of Lancaster; Kelly M. (Biehl), wife of Tanner Kohler of Birdsboro; Kristy L. Biehl and Kaitlyn L. Biehl, both of Alsace Township.

In addition, he is survived by one sister, Margaret "Peg" Kerschner of Laureldale and several nieces and nephews.

Mike is predeceased by a brother, William Schaeffer and two sisters, Edith Gensemer and Helen Genslinger.

A Memorial Service will be Saturday at 11 a.m. in Walter R. Christ Funeral Home, Inc., 3300 Kutztown Road, Laureldale. A visitation will be held from 10:30 until 11:00 a.m. in the funeral home. Burial will be in Leesport Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: One UCC Church Memorial Fund, 1730 New Holland Road, Reading, PA 19607 and/or Heartland Hospice, 4 Park Plaza, Park Road, Suite 105A, Wyomissing, PA 19610.

For online condolences, visit www.christfuneralhome.com.