William H. “Bill” Shaffer Jr., 79, of Cogan Station, was called home to God’s Kingdom on Friday, Nov. 10, 2023.
Bill was born on Jan. 29, 1944 to William H. Shaffer Sr. and Emma (Porter) Shaffer. He was the youngest of three children. In addition to his parents, Bill is predeceased by his sister, Phyllis Shaffer.
Bill graduated from Jersey Shore High School in 1961 and immediately enlisted in the United States Air Force. During his service, which lasted until 1965, Bill was stationed at Tripoli, Libya and Travis AFB, California. His duties took him all over the world, but he never found a place he loved more than the Susquehanna Valley.
Bill met his wife, Arainia, while stationed in California. Together they raised three children and were gifted with multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Known as “Pap” to the kids, Bill was a loving family man who remained actively involved in their lives until his illness left him unable to travel. He was adored by his entire family.
Bill and Araina have been devoted members of the Christian Church of Cogan Station since 1996. After his retirement from PP&L in 2002, he became the church groundskeeper for several years and participated in mission trips to Central America. More recently, Bill and Arainia have enjoyed traveling the United States. He loved wandering the highways and seeing new sights. Bill also enjoyed Nascar and remained a devoted Penn State football fan until his death. At home, Bill was always outside doing yard work, tinkering, or sitting on his porch reading Louis L’ Amour books. He enjoyed feeding the wildlife then watching the birds and animals throughout the seasons.
In addition to his loving wife of 59 years, Bill is survived by his sister, Faith Benway; his three children, Shelly Oeler (Rick) of Springfield, MO, Cindy Fridley (Eddie) of Staunton, VA, and William H. “Bill” Shaffer III, of Ozark, MO; ten grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A graveside service to honor the life of Bill will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 16 in Twin Hills Memorial Park, Muncy with full military honors.
The Shaffer family would like to thank Family Hospice at UPMC for providing the caring nurses and aides who worked so hard during the last days and months of Bill’s life. These women and men are heroic in their efforts.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating to your favorite local charity in his honor.
Online condolences may be made on Bill’s obituary page at http://www.KnightConferFuneralHome.com.
