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SCHAFER, GEORGE HENRY 04 APRIL 1921 - 19 JANURARY 2014 George was born to Mary and John Schafer in Maryfield Saskatchewan. George went to public school in Canora, Dropmore, Calder and Yorkton, where he graduated Grade XII. He attended Normal School in Moose Jaw in 1940 and began teaching in Runnydale School in 1941. In 1942 he married his sweetheart Edna Propp and had two sons, Wayne and Garth. George worked hard to support his family and took one class every summer for many years, graduating from the University of Saskatchewan with his B.Ed degree in 1962. George taught school for 38 years in Rhein, Mylar, Togo, Kamsack, Yorkton, Estevan, and culminated his career as Principal of Assiniboine School in Kamsack Saskatchewan. George was active in many community volunteer roles. He was an avid sports fan, and loved working with community youth by coaching hockey, baseball, and track and field. In 1979 they moved to Penticton BC, and resided there ever since. On the professional side he was active in various teacher associations. A respected individual in the community, he was Justice of the Peace for many years in Kamsack.. George and Edna celebrated their 71st wedding anniversary last August in Penticton. In his final years George spent many enjoyable visits to the day programs at Village by the Station. Failing health made it necessary to seek a care facility in 2013. He was grateful for the support he received from his family, the staff at Westview in Penticton, and finally at Haven Hill. He was predeceased by his parents, sister Katie Schafer, sister Irene Catherwood, brothers Fred Schafer, Alex Schafer and Bill Schafer. He is survived by sisters Jean Schab, Doreen Walper, and Eileen Denluk and numerous nieces and nephews. He is mourned by his wife Edna, sons Wayne (Dianne) and Garth (Elizabeth) and grandchildren Lindsay and Lauren, Aaryn (Neil) and Amanda (Steve) and great-grandchildren Anna, Claire, Grayden, and Isla. The family extends sincere gratitude to Dr. Mike Surkan, and to the staff of Penticton Regional Hospital, Westview Care Facility, Haven Hill, and Interior Health, all of whom made George's final year as comfortable as possible. Contributions in lieu of flowers may be sent to the Penticton Community Soupateria Society, 150 Orchard Avenue, Penticton, BC V2A 1X8. A memorial service to celebrate George's life will be held at Providence Funeral Homes, 1258 Main Street, Penticton, BC at 11:00 am on Saturday, 08 February, 2014. Condolences may be sent to the family through providencefuneralhomes.com
