Robert “Bob” Herman Schafer passed away on May 6, 2026, at the age of 87.
Bob was born on May 18, 1938, to Herman and Myrtle (Lunke) Schafer. He was baptized and confirmed at Bethel Lutheran Church in Duluth and was a longtime member of Hope Lutheran Church in Munger.
Bob graduated from Denfeld High School in 1956 and later attended UMD for two years. A talented musician, he played for many years both the accordion and piano with Johnny’s Accordianaires. He worked at MN DOT, MP&L, and Carlton County Courthouse retiring in 2000.
Bob was first married to June Frear, and together they had four children. After 20 years of marriage, they later divorced. On July 9, 1983, Bob married Darlene (Soderquist) Oachs at Hope Lutheran Church in Munger. They shared 42 happy years together and made their home in Proctor.
Bob enjoyed country, line, and square dancing, playing cards with friends, and decorating outdoors for Christmas. His Christmas displays earning 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place honors over the years.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Myrtle Schafer; his daughter, Susan McCorison; his son, Mark Schafer; stepdaughter Sheila Oachs Kosel; and stepsons Scott and Stanley Oachs.
Bob is survived by his loving wife, Darlene; his sons, Dan (Kathy) Schafer and Tom Schafer; son-in-law Richard McCorison; and stepson Steven Oachs (Patty Opoien.) He is also survived by his grandchildren Hannah (Seth), Sarah, Heather, Brandi, Shayne, Anthony, Cassandra, Cosette, Rick Jr., Ryan, Amber, Loren, and numerous step-grandchildren, including Eric, Adriane, Alex, along with many great-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren. He will also be dearly missed by his many friends and church family.
Bob will be remembered for his love of music, dancing, family gatherings, and the kindness he shared with everyone who knew him.
