John G. Schafman

John G. Schafman, 74, passed away in the loving presence of his family from cancer on Wednesday, June 11, 2008, at his home in Bonners Ferry.

John was born July 28, 1933, in Belvidere, Wis.

He joined the U.S. Air Force at 19 and traveled all over the nation and world through the military.

John moved his family to Bonners Ferry in 1979, after serving his country for 26 years.

He enjoyed nearly 30 years of retirement on the property he purchased as a young airman.

Some of John's many passions were bowling, hunting, fishing, bird watching, following sports, pinochle, music, carpentry projects and tinkering with technology.

He was a loving and caring man with a remarkable sense of humor. John took great pleasure in spending time with family and entertaining his grandchildren. His friends and loved ones will sorely miss him.

He is survived by his wife, Alice, five children, nine grandchildren and three siblings. Family includes Mike and Linda Eff, Tonya Eff, Jesse and Mandy Garcia; Brent and Trish Wenger with Nolan, Garrett and Adiel; Jon and Connie Schafman with Jack, Cate and Joshua; Jesse and Bonnie Janowiak; Kevin Schafman with Zoe; Ralph and Song Schafman; Chuck and Marty Schafman; and Gerry and Nancy Meyer.

To celebrate his life, a memorial gathering was hosted by his family at his home on Tuesday.

The family requests, that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to Bonner County Hospice or a charity of one's choice.

There will be no burial, as he desired to be cremated. There will be a private family ceremony in regards to his final resting place.