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John E. Shaffer, 88, of McClure, passed away on Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026, at his home.
Born Jan. 17, 1938, in Flint Valley, Pa., he was the son of the late Russel and Bessie (Snyder) Shaffer. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Marie Rice; his brother, George Shaffer; and his son, John R. Shaffer.
John is survived by his loving wife, Elsie (Neitz) Shaffer, whom he married on July 22, 1960; his children, Russell Shaffer and his wife, Michelle, of Milroy, Crystal Jost and her husband, Frank, of Lewistown, and Rosalie Baumgardner and her husband, Greg, of Belltown; 11 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.
John proudly and honorably served his country in the United States Army with the 313th Infantry Regiment, 79th Division.
He was a faithful member of Ebenezer Bible Church in Freeburg and retired from Penelec in 1994 after 30 years of dedicated service.
A man who found joy in lifeás simple pleasures, John had a lifelong love of hunting and fishing. He also enjoyed quilting, gathering nuts, tending to his vegetable garden, and proudly entering his harvest in local fairs. He was a generous supporter of many local fire companies and was a member of Decatur Fire Company, where he had served as past president. Known as a phenomenal storyteller, John had a special way of bringing people together through his stories and enjoyed nothing more than spending time with family and friends. Above all, he cherished his life with Elsie, often saying that the best decision he ever made was asking her to marry him.
Services will be held at a later date.
Arrangements have been entrusted to King-Barr Funeral Home, 120 Logan St., Lewistown.
Memorial contributions may be made in John’s memory to the Ladies Auxiliary of Decatur Fire Company, 4277 US-522, Lewistown, PA 17044.
Online condolences may be shared at www.kingbarrfuneral ome.com.