Michael R. Schaefer, 46 of Ferdinand passed away Sunday August 20th. Michael was born January 28, 1971 to Harold B. and Pauline M. (Bockhold) Schaefer. He was united in marriage to Edrina S. Harpe on September 3, 1997 in Gatlinburg, TN.
Michael was Manager of Product Development and an Engineer at Jasper Engines & Transmissions for 23 years. He was a member of The American Society of Engineers. He enjoyed yard work, landscaping, working on and fixing things, he was an avid hunter and fisherman, carpenter and woodworker. He enjoyed being with family & friends, especially his children. He served in the U.S. Navy on the USS Saratoga from 1989 until 1993. He served in the Gulf War, Operation Desert Shield, as an Aviation Electronics Technician Third Class in the United States Navy. He was preceded in death by his father Harold B. Schaefer.
Surviving are his wife, Edrina Sue Schaefer, three daughters, Miah, Katey, and Addison Schaefer all at home. His mother, Pauline M. Schaefer of St. Meinrad, one brother, Mark (Phyllis) Schaefer of Dale, three sisters, Paula (Mark) Lutz of Haubstadt, Jackie (Steve) Mehling of Ferdinand, and Trina (Jimmy) Strobel of Lamar. Father-in-law, Doug Bawel of Jasper, mother-in-law, Kathy Bawel of Ferdinand, sisters-in-law, Karen Wetzel of Lamar, Kelly Lovell of Evansville, Lori Wigand of Jasper, brothers-in-laws, Luke Bawel, Brock Bawel, and Tyler Flick all of Jasper, Trevor Flick of Indianapolis and Charlie Carter of Reo. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services for Michael R. Schaefer will be held at 10:00 AM CDT Thursday in Saint Meinrad Catholic Church. Burial with military graveside rites will follow in the church cemetery. Friends may call from 4:00 to 8:00 PM CDT Wednesday at Becher Funeral Home in Ferdinand, and after 9:00 AM CDT Thursday at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Christ the King Parish religious education. Online condolences may be shared at www.becherfuneralhome.com.
