Roger L. Shaffer

Roger L. Shaffer, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend passed away on September 15, 2026. He was born on May 30, 1946, in Milwaukee, Wis., to Betty and Clifford Shaffer. He lived a life filled with hard work, service, family, adventure and a deep love for the outdoors.

Roger was drafted into the United States Army and proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. For his service and sacrifice, he was awarded the Purple Heart and the Soldiers Medal, an honor which he carried with great pride.

As a young man, Roger worked as a repairman for Westinghouse and a bus driver for Greyhound before beginning a career at Hill Air Force Base.

Roger had a genuine love for the outdoors. He enjoyed fishing and participating in walleye fishing tournaments. He also loved hunting and working as a hunting guide. He was happiest when surrounded by nature. He especially loved horses, and his favorite horse, Jake, held a special place in his heart.

Roger also had a passion for writing cowboy poetry, putting his thoughts, experiences and love of the Western way of life into words. His poetry reflected his independent spirit, his appreciation for the outdoors and the many experiences that shaped his life.

After three previous marriages, Roger was blessed to find the love of his life, Deborah. The two were married on June 1, 1996, and together they built a life filled with love, family , companionship and cherished memories.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Betty and Clifford; beloved son, Raymond; and sisters, Colleen and Sherilyn.

He is survived by his loving wife, Deborah; daughter, Stacy Jensen (Rick); son, Michael (Trinady); daughter-in-law, Pam; bonus daughters, Amber Jolley, Lisa Bell and Crystal Kirkman; sisters, Margaret and Ann; 14 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

Roger will be remembered for his strength his stories, his love of family and friends, his service to his country and his adventurous spirit. He found joy in fishing tournaments, hunting, horses, the open outdoors and the Western life he loved so much. His cowboy poetry and the memories he created with his family will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

Though he is no longer with us, Roger's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Ride easy, Roger. Your boots may be resting, but your cowboy spirit will ride on forever. You will be deeply missed and forever loved.

The family would like to give special thanks to everyone involved in the care given to Roger. The family will hold a celebration of life in the near future.