John Robert Shaffer, 69, of Tri-Lakes, died at 1:12 a.m. Monday, February 13, 2023, at Parkview Randallia, where he was admitted on Tuesday.

Born on March 3, 1953, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, he was the son of the late Homer O. and Beulah M. (Harding) Shaffer. Growing up in Merriam, he began school at Wolf Lake and graduated from Central Noble High School in 1971.  He continued his education at Lincoln Tech in Indianapolis, where he became an automotive technician.

He began his work career with his father at H.O. Shaffer Tractor Supply in Merriam.  In 1982, he joined Trier Ford-Lincoln-Mercury in Columbia City as an auto mechanic.  After the dealership was sold, he moved with the new owners, City Ford, and worked there until retiring in 2020.

Fond of motorcycles, he spent his leisure time repairing, building, and riding motorcycles.  One of his favorites, a 1981 Honda XL 500, has been passed on to his son, who is looking to pass it on to his son.  In his early adulthood, John pursued his pilot's license stopping short of the required hours because the family sold the airplane.

He enjoyed living at the lake and partaking in the activities.  Using his mechanical skills, he made furniture and shelving for his home.  Above all, he adored his two boys.

Surviving are his sons, J. Cody Shaffer of Chicago and Jamison R. (Katelyn) Shaffer of Detroit, and a grandson, Olen M. Shaffer.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by a brother, Richard Shaffer.

Per John's request, there will be no services.  Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home Columbia City.