Walter Ervin Shafer, 94, of Texico, passed away Monday, February 13, 2023, at SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital, in Mt. Vernon.
He was born November 7, 1928, in Farrington Township, the son of Ira J. and Ida May (Riggs) Shafer.
Walter served in the United States Army, from 1950 – 1952, and was deployed to Korea, during the Korean War. After returning home, he worked on the family farm. Along with his brother, Loyd, he worked as a carpenter. They built many houses in the area. He has been a member of Union Chapel United Methodist Church, since 1945. He also helped construct the present church building.
Walter was privileged to attend the Veteran’s Honor Flight #3 to Washington DC on April 2018, accompanied by guardian Dustin Dagg.
Walter was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers, Loyd, and George Shafer.
He is survived by family members, neighbors, and friends, including the Jackson and the Wilkins families.
Funeral services for Mr. Shafer will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, February 18, 2023, at Osborn Funeral Home in Dix, with Pastor Therese Melena officiating. Burial will follow at Union Chapel Cemetery, with graveside military rites accorded by American Legion Post #141, of Mt. Vernon, Illinois. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the funeral hour, Saturday, at the funeral home.
Memorial gifts may be made to Union Chapel United Methodist Church or an organization of the donor’s choice and will be accepted at the service or by mail to the Osborn Funeral Home, P.O. Box 130, Dix, Illinois 62830. Online condolences may be made at www.osbornfuneral.com, or on the Osborn Funeral Home Facebook page.
