Joseph M. Schafer
December 3, 1963 ~ September 4, 2026
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.
Services
Visitation: Saturday, September 12, 2026 9:00 am - 10:00 am
Boulger Funeral Home and Celebration of Life Center
123 10th Street S.
Fargo, North Dakota 58103
701-237-6441
https://boulgerfuneralhome.com
Funeral Service : Saturday, September 12, 2026 10:00 am
Boulger Funeral Home and Celebration of Life Center
123 10th Street S.
Fargo, North Dakota 58103
701-237-6441
https://boulgerfuneralhome.com
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God bless Joe and the entire Schafer family! Many fond memories of growing up with Joe, Al ( Kung Fu ), and Will in the neighborhood. Take care!
Our paths crossed almost every weekend during the summer. You always have a kind word and a pleasant smile. I’ll miss you, Joe. Also I’ll miss the many times that you cut my grass during the summer.
Will and Al , I am deeply saddened to hear of Joe passing. We shared many laughs and stories in the back room at Hornbachers and talked often about growing up on 20th street. I think of you guys often and regret that I can’t be at Joe’s service. May God bring you and all your family peace and comfort at this difficult time.
Sorry to hear about Joe, may God’s peace be with the entire family.
Rest peacefully Joe, you will be greatly missed by the Schuck clan. You left us too early.
My condolences to the family!!
It’s been a while since I saw that grin . It still brings me back to memories many years ago that seem like yesterday. You’ll be my thoughts and prayers just like Willie, Al, and your family and friends.
Sad I missed the funeral, but joy fills my mind when I think of the last time we talked and laughed .
I’m so sorry to hear of his passing. Joe & I worked together at Hornbachers many years ago. He had a kind soul & always had a smile on his face, mixed with a mischeivious grin, & could always be heard whistiling in the aisles.