John D Shaffer

John Shaffer went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, July 30. John was born on June 5, 1955, to John Shaffer and Nancy (Shaffer) McCarthy in Olean, New York. He graduated from Allegany Central School in 1973. He attended Northwood Institute in Midland, MI where he was an All-American Defensive Tackle. In 1979, John moved to Fort Wayne, IN to be with his two sons, Sean James and Shane David. While helping to raise Sean and Shane, John was a union construction worker, a self-employed professional painter and jack of all trades. In 1992 John fathered twin sons, Ross and Ian Mcgillivray. He was the life of the party; always in a good mood, and held a contagious smile on his face. He probably made you mad at some point, but also made you feel great about yourself with his golden heart. If you ever met John, you likely knew he was a rabid Buffalo Bills fan. Additionally, he greatly enjoyed cheering on his Granddaughter at softball games. John is survived by his two sons; Sean Shaffer of Fort Wayne and Shane (Alyssa) Shaffer of Bloomington, IN. Twin sons, Ross and Ian Mcgillivray. Beloved Aunt Fran Stayer of Allegany, NY. Sisters, Laurie Shaffer of Bolivar, NY, Susan (David) Outman of Smethport, PA, and Annie (Steve) Kriner of Portville, NY. Brothers; Daniel (Denise) Shaffer of Frederick, MD and Charles McCarthy of Olean, NY. Two Granddaughters were blessed with his love: Aaliyah (Sean) Shaffer and Evelyn (Shane) Shaffer. And one Grandson (Sean) on the way who will be named after his Grandpa. Also surviving are his nieces and nephews: Caitlin and Kevin (Daniel) Shaffer; Kayla, Nicholas and Courtney (Annie) Whippo. John was loved by many uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews; and many friends. John was preceded in death by his parents, his favorite Uncle John Stayer, along with loved aunts, uncles and cousins. John David and his stories will be greatly missed but we know the celebration day with his dearly beloved ones is his ultimate homecoming. His love, strength and inappropriate sense of humor were unparalleled. Dear friend and family members know, he would always say goodbye with “I love you, honey.” Friends may gather on Friday, August 4 from 5-7 p.m, with a celebration of life immediately following at 7 p.m. at Harper Funeral Homes, Avilla Chapel, 530 N Main St, Avilla, IN 46710. In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates donations to assist with services. Donations can be made directly to Harper Funeral Home or through the GoFundMe.com page. To leave online condolences, visit www.harperfuneralhomes.com