Obituary of Maureen Ann Shafer

Mrs. Maureen Ann Shafer, 78, of Stabenow Road, Canajoharie, New York died Thursday, November 6, 2014 at her home with her family by her side. Born on February 11, 1936 in Schenectady, NY, she was the daughter of Walter Wickham and Helen Steinaus Wickham. She was Salutatorian of her graduating class at St. Joseph's High School in Schenectady, NY. Mrs. Shafer had been a resident of Canajoharie since 1970, previously residing in Schenectady. She was of Christian faith. Mrs. Shafer enjoyed spending as much time as she could with her family and friends. She loved going to Lake Ontario to go fishing at Fairhaven Beach Park. On September 17, 1955 at St. Joseph's Church in Schenectady, NY, Maureen was married to Robert E. Shafer, Sr. Together they celebrated over 59 years of marriage. Mrs. Shafer was predeceased by her siblings and grandson, Aaron Ward. She is survived by her husband, Robert E. Shafer, Sr. of Canajoharie, NY; 4 children, Robert E. and Gail Shafer, Jr. of Fultonville, NY, Christine and Jeffery Howe of Ilion, NY, Richard and Sondra Shafer of Galway, NY, Barbara Ward of Delanson, NY; 15 grandchildren, Erica, Robert III, Michael, Nicholas "The Helper", Melissa, Jonathan, Jill, Jackie, Kaylee, Cassie, Matthew, Emily, Jeffrey, Samantha, Caleb; 10 great-grandchildren, Makenzie, Kylee, Maya, Kayden, Peyton, Jordyn, Gavin, Aiden, Grace, Bennett. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, November 12, 2014 at 10:00am at The Chapel of Houghtaling & Smith Funeral Home, 20 Otsego Street, Canajoharie, NY with Pastor Charlie Houle officiating. The family will receive relatives and friends on Tuesday, November 11, 2014 from 4:00-7:00pm at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers please consider contributions in memory of Mrs. Maureen Shafer to Mountain-Valley Hospice, 108 Steele Ave., Gloversville, NY 12078.