Mary E. Shafer

Mary Estelle Shafer (nee Beuten)

March 17, 1944 – May 1, 2023

Devoted wife of the late Roger Shafer for 54 years. Loving mother of Jeffrey Shafer of Keizer, Oregon, and the late Mark (surviving Sheila) Shafer of Liberty Twp., Ohio. Dear grandmother of Jennifer (Paul) and Andrew (Rebecca) of Cincinnati, Ohio. Also survived by brother, John (Carolyn) Beuten of Elgin, IL and sister-in-law Joyce Hammond of Salt Lake City, UT. Daughter of the late Francis and Elizabeth Beuten.

Mary was born in Latrobe, PA in 1944, moving to Elgin, IL during her childhood. She graduated high school from St. Edwards High School, and went on to become a Lab Technician for 40+ years, becoming Director at Truman Medical Center in Kansas City, MO.

Mary was full of life, bringing her bright spirit into every room. She was proud of her Irish heritage, celebrating her birthday on St. Patrick’s Day in perfect serendipity. She and her mother, Elizabeth Beuten, would often go to the Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade sporting their “O’ Connor” sashes. She loved walking and hiking, traveling around the country with her family exploring various natural parks and landmarks. An avid bird watcher, her favorite were cardinals, gathering quite the collection of cardinal memorabilia.

But above all, Mary lived for her family. She was incredibly proud of her sons and grandchildren, never missing an opportunity to support them and cheer them on. Her marriage with Roger was one of pure love, dedication, and loyalty. Family meals were a regular occurrence, often featuring baked Mac n Cheese (a family recipe and tradition), delicious brisket, and her famous sauerkraut balls. Mary’s faith was strong, and we pray she has found peace. She will be missed by all of those who had the pleasure to meet her.

Memorial Visitation will be held at Hodapp Funeral Home, 6410 Cincinnati Dayton Rd., Liberty Twp., OH 45044, on Thursday, May 18, 2023 from 5-7 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, 330 Lebanon St., Monroe, OH 45050, on Friday, May 19, 2023 at 10 AM, followed by a burial service at Spring Hill Cemetery in Liberty Twp., OH.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to ALS Therapy Development Inst., and/or ALS Assoc. Central and Southern Ohio in honor of her late husband, Roger.