×

Richard E. Schaefer 1948-2026

AUSTINTOWN — Richard E. Schaefer, 78, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at his home.

He was born Feb. 14, 1948, in Pittsburgh, Pa., a son of the late Eugene and Jane Potter Schaefer.

Richard Schaefer married Darlene Ferla on Aug. 20, 1976. Together for almost 50 years, they built a life filled with love, laughter, faith and family. Their lasting devotion to one another and their beautiful memories will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Richard was a proud veteran of the United States National Guard. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

He loved golf and he was so proud of that hole-in-one. He enjoyed traveling and playing volleyball, and his passion was taking care of his yard. However, his greatest joy was his family.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving spouse, Darlene Schaefer; children, Doug (Sathita) Schaefer, Katie (Josh) Silfies and Kelsey (Adam) Blazak; grandchildren, Liam, Lennix, Nora and one soon-to-be-born baby boy; as well as brother and sister-in-law, Terry and Kathie Bardwell.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his in-laws, Margaret (Tom) Baker and Robert Ferla.

Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 28, 2026, at St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church, 4545 New Road, Austintown, OH 44515. Family and friends may pay their respects 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Lane Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel.

Richard will be laid to rest in Green Haven Memorial Gardens.

Arrangements for Mr. Schaefer are provided by Lane Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel, 5797 Mahoning Ave., Austintown, OH, 44515. The obituary may be viewed and condolences sent by visiting www.lanefuneralhomes.com.

(special notice)