Melvin H. Shafer

Melvin H. Shafer, 96, passed away on Fri., Nov. 2, 2018 at the Ohio Veterans Home in Sandusky. He was born on Dec. 28, 1921 in Fremont to the late Howard and Clara (Zweily) Shafer.

In 1940, Melvin graduated from Fremont Ross High School.  He then enlisted in 1942, serving his country in WWII, as a B-24 Army Air Corp Pilot.  He was stationed in Italy and was awarded the 15^th Airforce Air Medal and the Distinguished Flying Cross.  After the war, Melvin married his wife of over 65 years, Rita Praetorius, at Grace Lutheran Church on Sep. 13, 1947.  Rita passed on Apr. 30, 2013.

Melvin was a farmer and worked as a field man for Northern Ohio Sugar.  He retired in 1987 after 30 years.  He was a member of the Fremont VFW, the Junquindendah Farm Bureau Council, a 40-year member of the Fremont Lions Club, a lifelong member of Grace Lutheran Church and a former Council President.  He was a recipient of the State Farmers Degree in FFA and Melvin Jones Fellowship Award. He also enjoyed playing cards and bridge.

Surviving are children, Jay Shafer of Columbus, Louise (Gary) Saam of Marblehead, Donna (Robert) Naugle of Butler, and John (Sheril) of Helena;10 grandchildren; and, 12 great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Rita; daughter, Nancy Shafer; grandchildren, Eric Shafer and Melanie Saam; and siblings, Donald Shafer and Lois Bibler-Malone.

Friends and family will be welcomed at the Herman-Karlovetz Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Fremont on Mon., Nov. 5, 2018 from 3-8 p.m. A Memorial Services will be held on Tues., Nov. 6, 2018 at Grace Lutheran Church, 11 a.m. Burial will be private at Oakwood Cemetery

Memorials may be made to Grace Lutheran Church or to Stein Hospice, Sandusky.