Obituary of Russel Shaeffer

Russel Shaeffer was born in Lincoln, Missouri January 26, 1919, to Sherman and Elnora Shaeffer, the youngest of the family of eight. The family moved to Dos Palos, California in 1925 where he attended school, graduating from Dos Palos High School. While working in Fresno he enlisted in the Air Force in February 1941. Serving in the 89th Squadron troop carrier command based in England and France, he piloted C 47's supplying troops and material to Patton's army. Discharged in 1945 he returned to Dos Palos, For a time he was part owner of a service station in Sacramento with wartime buddy, Buzz Koehler. Returning to Dos Palos he operated a hay baling business. However, his first interest was flying and was soon employed by Agair, Inc. a crop dusting service based in Dos Palos. Commissioned by them, he came to the Sacramento Valley as a pioneer in the earliest phase of rice sowing by plane. Leaving the employ of Agair he established his own business known as Shaeffer Aviation located at Patrick Airport. He applied fertilizers, sprays and other materials by plane. With the growth of The business he relocated to Chico Municipal Airport and added partners Darrell Wahl and Frank Ponke. A perfectionist, he realized great satisfaction from work well done. An outdoorsman, when not flying he enjoyed fishing, hunting, golf and maintaining the family almond orchard. He participated in Butte County Sheriff's Search and Rescue, Chico Airport Commission and Professional Agricultural Technicians Association. He was a former member of Sirs 63, a member of Bidwell Presbyterian Church, the Elks Club and Butte Creek Country Club. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Vangie, son Mike Shaeffer and daughter, Lori Shaeffer, He was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Janet, five brothers and two sisters. He is survived by many nieces and nephews. At his request no services are planned. Donations may be made to Butte Humane Society or charity of choice.