Joseph M. Schafer

Joseph was born in Fargo, ND December 3, 1963 to Harry and Cathy Schafer (Hager) and lived a full and fun life in Fargo. He and his brothers had a fun childhood, he was an avid sports player enjoying hockey and football and graduated from Fargo South High in 1982. He started his career at Hornbacher’s after high school.

He married Theresa in 1992 and they became parents to McKenzie in 1994. He continued to enjoy sports in his early adulthood playing softball. He was a devoted father. He lived and breathed being a “daddyo” to McKenzie. He was patient, loving, funny, and never missed a thing. Supporting her every step through her childhood and into adulthood. He never missed a sporting event that she cheered at. He became a proud grandpa to Parker Jo on October 21, 2025. They were able to make a full summer of memories together on Star Island which was his favorite place to be. He spent every weekend at Cass Lake, MN on Star Island with the Schuck Family, LaLonde Family, and Lambert Family. He never missed a weekend, he was a child at heart thoroughly enjoying all the fun things in life with his family and friends. He will be deeply missed.

Survived by daughter McKenzie Putnam (Sam); granddaughter (Parker Jo); Theresa Schafer (Jay); brothers Will Schafer (Lori) and Al Schafer (Teresa); brother-in-law Derek Schuck; nephews, and their families, Zach Schafer (Anna), Austin Schafer, Michael Schafer (Kimmy), Nick Schafer (Kelcie), Grace Schuck (Isak), and Garrett Schuck; and many other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Harry and Cathy Schafer.