Richard D. Schafer

Richard D. Schafer, age 73, passed away on April 30th 2025, in St George, Utah.

Richard was born January 25, 1952 in Rupert, Idaho to Dorothy Kime and William Schafer Jr. He attended schools in Rupert, graduating from Minico High School in 1970. Richard was active in sports and Student Council.  He served as Student Body Vice President and Student Body President.  Richard received a Liberal Arts Degree from Idaho State University in Pocatello, Idaho, in 1974. On June 7 1977, Richard made a profession of faith.  He relocated to Portland Oregon and attended Multnomah University.

Richard married Renee Johnston in Sun Valley, Idaho on March 31, 1983.  Together, they owned and successfully operated several insurance businesses in Twin Falls and Burley, Idaho. Richard loved the Lord and faithfully served him throughout his life.  He was passionate about sharing the gospel with others.  He served as moderator and usher at the Paul Congregational Church.  Richard was a member of the Rupert Elks, Rupert Country Club, serving as president and Rupert Rotary, serving as Vice President and President.  He was on the board of the Minidoka Planning and Zoning Commission.  In the winter, Richard spent his childhood years snow skiing in Sun Valley and staying with his grandparents in Picabo, Idaho. The summers were spent camping and waterskiing at Lake Walcott, during the time his father was superintendent of Minidoka Dam.  He enjoyed many different activities, including snow and water skiing, golfing, and coaching high school football. He had a passion for cars, old and new and had a talent for building model cars. He enjoyed music and playing the drums. 

He is survived by his wife Renee Schafer, daughters Chalet Whitaker (Mike) Kirsten Steen (Mike) and Lindsay Sexton (Rob). Six grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Sisters, Shelli Woodruff (Harry) and Cathy Whitaker (Bruce).  He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Dorothy Schafer, his son Ryan and grandson Tyler Steen.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the American Heart Association, IHC Hospice Care or charity of choice.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2025 at Hansen Mortuary, 710 6th St Rupert, Idaho from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. The funeral will be held at 2:00 pm. Service will conclude with burial in the Paul Cemetery,  550 W 100 N Paul, Idaho. Arrangements are under the direction of Joel Heward Hansen Mortuary.

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