Ronald M. Schaeffer

Ronald M. Schaeffer, age 79, of Newburgh, IN, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 24, 2025, with his beloved family at his side.

Ron was born December 22, 1945, in Fargo, ND, to Clarence and Freda (Weist) Schaeffer. He graduated from Grand Forks Central High School in 1967, where he met the love of his life, Jane, in English class. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree from the University of North Dakota. He and Jane lived in ND for two years after they were married, and then they moved to DeKalb, IL, where they both taught. Ron taught English, Theatre, and Speech for over 35 years. He worked as a Speech Team Coach, attending many competitions on the weekends. During the summer, he had his own business as a house painter. Ron was a good landlord, and he liked working as a handyman on his rental houses. He and Jane loved going on cruises together, and he also enjoyed listening to music, being outdoors, boating, camping, and driving his snowmobile. After retirement, Ron and Jane moved to Evansville, IN, to be with Andrea and her family. Ron enjoyed watching sports, especially the Minnesota Vikings, Chicago Cubs, and Chicago Bears (when they weren’t playing the Vikings). He loved playing at area casinos, and he loved Donut Bank. Many precious memories were made traveling with his family – they were his whole world.

Ron is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Jane (Bethke) Schaeffer; daughter, Andrea Grillo (Brad Johnson) of Evansville, IN; son, Steve Schaeffer of Rockford, IL; grandchildren, Abby Grillo, Emily Sipes (Payton), and Collin Schaeffer; sister, Rebecca LaBrant (Walter Stiles); brother, Russell Schaeffer (Gretchen); and granddog, Sophie.

Ron is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Royce Schaeffer; and brother-in-law, Arthur LaBrant.

A Private Celebration of Life will be held for the family.

Friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. CST, Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Boone Funeral Home East Chapel – A Family Tradition Funeral Home, 5330 Washington Avenue, Evansville, IN.

The family would like to say a special Thank You to Pammy at Linda White Hospice House for her compassionate care and dedication.

Memorial Contributions may be made to: Evansville Salvation Army at 1040 N. Fulton Avenue, Evansville, IN, 47710 or Linda E. White Hospice House at 611 Harriet Street, Evansville, IN 47710.

Boone Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Ron Schaeffer. Condolences may be made to the family online at boonefuneralhome.net

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