James Schaefer

James passed away Monday, June 2, 2014 at his home, surrounded by his family. Jim was born December 4,1925 in Bay City to the late David and Florence(Vulders)Schaefer. He married Rebecca(Marie) Berg on April 26, 1947 in Sebewaing. Jim owned and operated Schaefer's Super Service. Jim served in World War II in the 82nd Airborne Division in Southern France and was in the 106 infantry division. He was also in the battle at Normandy and received the Purple Heart at the battle at St. Lo. He was a life time member of Amvets Post 22 and Zion Lutheran Church of Bay City. Surviving besides his wife Rebecca (Marie) are four sons and a daughter. James(Debra) Schaefer and Dwight(Debra) Schaefer of AZ., Debra( Russell) Dinsmore of Munger, Pat Schaefer and Michael(Kelly) Schaefer of Bay City. Jim also leaves 13 grandchildren: Erin (Charles) Chisholm , Jamie Wipprecht , Kristen (Scott) Reigelsperger , Megan Schaefer, Ryan Schaefer and Beth Schaefer all from Az.,Russell(Kristi) Dinsmore and Jennifer(David) Gallagher of Bay City, Nicholas Dinsmore and fiance Abbey Bierlein of Royal Oak, Mi., Joshua, Kayla, Morgan and Bailey Schaefer all of Bay City. Jim was also blessed with 12 great grandchildren and was soon awaiting the arrival of 2 more. Jim is survived also by one sister Geraldine (Leonard) Kaczorowski. Besides his parents, he is predeceased by his stepmother Doris (Single) Schaefer and a sister and brother-in-law- William and Marion Maxwell. The family would like to thank a very special nephew and wife, John And Barb Hofmeister and to Hospice Advantage staff and to all our wonderful neighbors and friends for all their help and support. Funeral and Committal Services will take place Saturday, June 7, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church. Officiating will be Rev. William H. Allwardt followed by Military Honor's conducted by the Bay County Veterans Council. Private interment will take place in Floral Gardens Cemetery. The family will be present at the Gephart Funeral Home, Inc. on Friday to receive family and friends from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. James will be taken to the church on Saturday to lie in state from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services. Memorial cards for Zion Lutheran church will be available at the funeral home and at the church.