Ernest Schaefer

Ernest Schaefer, 93, of Desloge, passed away December 25, 2024. He was born August 29, 1931, in St. Louis, to the late Ewald and Ida (Brandt) Schaefer. 

Ernest was of Lutheran faith and dedicated his life to serving his country in the United States Coast Guard before embarking on a rewarding career as a mapping agent with the government, from which he retired. He held a passion for the simple joys that life offered, including a fondness for raising pigeons in his younger years. In his retirement, he cherished peaceful days spent fishing and hunting for treasures at local flea markets. Most importantly, he treasured the time spent with his family, who were the center of his world.

He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Delores Schaefer and one brother, Ewald Schaefer, Jr.

Ernest is survived by his loving wife, Priscilla (Laliberte) Schaefer; children, Paul Schaefer and wife Tammy, Carla Graham and husband Scott, Michael Wheat and wife Denise, Yvonne Artis and husband Bruce; grandchildren, Daniel Graham, Catherine (Ray) Carpenter, Kendra (Matt) Skaggs, Leandra Hodges, Noah Wheat and Patrick (Val) McClellan; three great-grandchildren; siblings, Art Schaefer, Jeanette Werstein and Susan Mueller; several other family members also survive.

Visitation will be held at C. Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Home on Friday, January 3, 2025, from 10:00 AM until the service time of 12:00 PM. Pastor David Schmitt will be officiating. Interment will follow at Leadwood Cemetery.