Paul Webster Schaefer

Paul Webster Schaefer

Iowa City

Paul Webster Schaefer, born July 6, 1939, in Baltimore, MD, passed away peacefully on July 5, 2024. He spent most of his childhood in Sykesville, MD, where he developed a deep appreciation for family and community.

Paul was born to Paul Woodrow Schaefer and Susanne Ford Stansfield. He graduated from the National College of Education with a BA in Behavioral Science, a reflection of his lifelong passion for connecting with others.

Paul married his beloved wife, Gerianne, in 1986 after meeting at PSI World and got two lovely stepchildren in the process. He also had three wonderful children from his first marriage. Paul cherished his role as a father and grandfather, finding joy in their achievements and milestones.

Paul's professional journey was as diverse as his interests. He proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1957 to 1960, then pursued careers including police officer in Clearwater Beach, FL, National Sales Manager at Kraft Foods in Chicago, IL, and founder of Eagle Resources Inc., where he was an investment advisor since 1991.

An Eagle Scout himself, Paul was deeply involved in community service throughout his life. He was a former member of Rotary International, served as a Deacon at the First Presbyterian Church in Iowa City, and contributed as a board member of the Preucil School of Music Foundation.

Paul had a passion for music, with a particular fondness for Elvis Presley, Neil Diamond, Fleetwood Mac, and the Bee Gees. He also loved sports, cheering passionately for the Chicago Bears, Cubs, and Bulls, as well as the Iowa Hawkeyes. He was an avid runner, yoga enthusiast and spirited dancer.

Known for his warm personality and penchant for close conversation, Paul had a knack for making friends wherever he went. He cherished his relationships with family, friends, and acquaintances alike.

Paul is survived by his devoted wife Gerianne Schaefer, children Paul Jr. (Gretchen) Schaefer, Eric Schaefer, Judah Seruya, and Lauren (Tomeka) Magnani; grandchildren Megan (Jim) Ramelli, Emily (Jon) Kiefer, Dakota and Kosta Lecos, and Eliana Magnani; siblings John Schaefer (Jude), Stan Riley (Hilary), Don Riley (Vicki), his former spouse Angelina Arvizu, and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents Paul and Susanne Schaefer, sister Susie Christensen, and brother Steve Schaefer.

Paul Webster Schaefer's legacy of love, service, and friendship will forever be cherished by those whose lives he touched.

A memorial service to celebrate Paul's life will be held Friday, July 12, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Lensing Funeral and Cremation Service. Visitation will be Thursday, July 11, 2024 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. Private family burial will be at Memory Gardens Cemetery. The service will be livestreamed with a link to be found on Paul's obituary page at www.lensingfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Friends of the Animal Shelter Foundation.