Fred Shaffer

August 28, 1918 - August 28, 2009

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Fred Shaffer, a proud American, Pearl Harbor survivor and loving husband of Mary Jane Shaffer, passed away on August 28, 2009 at his home in Easley, SC while celebrating his 91st birthday with his family. He attended St. Mary's Catholic Church in downtown Greenville and was a faithful member of the Saturday Senior Fellowship Group. Born in Sand Springs, OK on August 28, 1918, he was the son of the late Floyd and Pearl Dickerson Shaffer. He joined the United States Navy in 1936 and was serving aboard the USS Tennessee during the attack on Pearl Harbor. In 1943, he was transferred to the aircraft carrier USS Solomon. He continued to serve until he received a medical discharge in 1945. Following discharge, Fred moved to Seattle, WA, where he enjoyed a civilian career at the Naval Air Station, retiring after 36 years. While in Seattle from 1956 to 1960, Fred participated in the Annual Seafair Hydroplane Races on Lake Washington. He was crew chief for the winners, Shanty I in 1956 and The Maverick in 1959. Fred was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, son, brother and uncle. A lifetime member of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association, the Battleship USS Tennessee Reunion Association and the American Legion. Fred was passionate in his pursuit to share the honor he had for his country. Fred was blessed to be loved by three wonderful women in his life. He was preceded in death by his first two wives, Doereta and Miriam; brothers, Carl and Earle Shaffer; and a grandson, Timothy Antovich. In 1995, Fred moved to Easley, SC where he married Mary Jane Blanton. He is survived by a son, Ralph Shaffer Norma; a daughter, Beverly Antovich; a sister, Beatrice Workman; a brother, Jack Shaffer Martha; and stepchildren, Gail Walgamott Ted, Linda Myers Carl, Mike Brase Cathy, Patrick Brase Jane, Miriam Vermeulen Robert, Gary Blanton Nikki, Beverly Goldsmith, Pam Creasy Jack, Paul Blanton Connie, Barbara Mercer Mark; and many very special and loving grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorials be made in Fred's honor to the USS Tennessee Museum, c/o Paul and Karen Dawson, 249 Clover Circle, Jacksboro, TN 37757 or to The American Heart Association,
3535 Pelham Road, Suite 101, Greenville, SC 29615. Visitation will be held Saturday, September 12, 2009 at 12:45 p.m. at Thomas McAfee Funeral Home, Downtown, with a memorial service to follow at 1:30 p.m. in the chapel.

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Dear Jane, We are so sorry for your loss. Fred must have been so happy celebrating his Birthday having all the children with him. Fred was a very special Brother-in-law and friend, he loved making things and giving each of us something to enjoy. We wil

Such is LIFE: A very good man serves his country, shares with his fellow man, and gives so much of himself and his great character to family and friends -- then, we have to say goodbye. With you, I'm sad. I'm sad that I didn't make more opportunit

We are so sorry to hear of Fred's passing. The only good thing about it is that I can not think of a better way to leave this world--celebrating a birthday among his loved ones. True he was an American Hero and all of us will miss him. I hope you can at

Dear Jane, Just wanted to let you know how sorry I was to hear about Fred. I know you are sad, but what a great way to go...surrounded by family! May your wonderful memories sustain you all in the days ahead. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Dear Aunt Jane, We are so sorry for your loss, please call if you need anything. We all will miss Fred but you most of all! Thank you for all your kindness to him and your loving care. XXOO Ted and Gail

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

My deepest sympathies to you and your family. I really enjoyed chatting with Fred at the Knoxville reunion. He still had that twinkle in his eye. I remember at the high school lunch. He was telling us about his recent medical challenges and that his eyes

This was presented at my High School for Veterans Day last year and provides a glimpse into events in my Grandfathers life. For many years, people have put their lives on the line for their homes. The American people have been through many wars. In e

It was a great honour to know Fred. 14 wonderful years with Jane. Fred can see and hear and is not ill any longer, and he is whittling everyone in heaven a wonderful new gadget. Jane you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.