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Donald Lester Shaffer, age 78, passed away on October 12, 2016 in Tyler, TX.
Mr. Shaffer served honorably in the U.S. Navy and later moved to Vero Beach. He trained under the supervision of former world and national weightlifting champion, Joe Pitman; at the State Championships he walked away with honors in the heavyweight division.
Donald volunteered with youngsters to encourage weightlifting and body building. He worked as a Meat Department Manager at Platt’s and Keen’s Super Markets as well as cutting the best steaks ever for Barrett’s Steak House in Vero Beach, FL. Donald served in Christian Ministry at the Indian River County Jail under the direction of Pastor Buddy Tipton.
He owned and operated several restaurants in Florida and around the country. Donald was also licensed in Texas as a Horse Trainer where he trained winners for himself and others.
He is survived by sons, Steven Shaffer of Alba, TX and Johnny Shaffer of Charleston, WV; brother, Homer R. Shaffer of Massillon, OH; sisters, Carolyn Sue Shaffer of Ft. Myers, FL, Judy (Jack) Saucerman; nephews, Dwayne Allen Shaffer, of Ft. Myers, FL; nieces, Terri Hinzman (Gary) Mills, Shelly Ferger, Susan (Chris) Knight Worthen of Vero Beach, FL, Connie Stevens (James) Allen; great-nice, Heather (Eric) Holbrook, Brittany Stevens, Lindsey (Jack) Sewell of Fairmount, GA; great-nephew, Ryan Worthen of Vero Beach, FL; great-great-nephews, Colby and Zachery, Kas and Lux; Donald’s faithful visitor from the church, S.T. Convey; and many dear friends across Florida and the country.
Donald’s final message to them all is, “I love you; continue to follow the Lord until we meet again”.
Florida family held graveside services in Clewiston, FL beside the graves of his mother, Marion Genevieve Hendry; step-father, Clarence Earl Hendry; and brother, Danny Lee Shaffer.
Donations may be made, in Donald’s Memory, to: The Dog’s for Life Veterans Service Dog Training Program, 1230 16th Avenue, Vero Beach, FL 32960.
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