James Myron Schaefer

James Myron Schaefer, 86, of North Syracuse, passed away December 17, 2021, peacefully in his sleep. James was born in New York City to Myron and Irene (Woodcock) Schaefer. Jim studied animal husbandry at Morrisville college before joining the service. He served in the US Army as a Security Agent with the Intelligence branch (ASA) based in Germany.  He met his wife, Gracemary Durstewitz while attending a USO dance in New Jersey. They married and spent nearly 45 yrs together until her death in 2006. They resided in N. Syracuse where they raised their family of three children.

He worked briefly for Sealright & GLF and then for 50 years had a fantastic career establishing J&M Schaefer Battery Co. Jim’s passion was helping others in need. He volunteered with Meals on Wheels, Boy Scouts, Syr. Chamber, Knights of Columbus and Kiwanis Club, where he was a Lt. Governor. Jim was kind, charming and caring and made a lasting impact on everyone he met. He enjoyed telling stories, but most importantly enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He was truly one of a kind due to his charismatic outlook and will be deeply missed.

Besides his parents/wife, he was predeceased by his sisters, Barbara Bosco and Frances Tynan.

He is survived by his children, Michael (Coleen) Schaefer, Patrick (Loreena) Schaefer and Kathleen (Tom) Murdock; several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Mass will be held Jan.4, 2022 at 10 am at St. Margaret’s Church with burial to follow in North Syracuse Cemetery. Calling hours are Mon, Jan.3rd from 4-7pm at Sears Middleton Mathewson Funeral Home, 209 N. Main St., N. Syr.

In lieu of flowers, donations in James' name can be made to the Kiwanis Club of Eastwood-East Syracuse, PO Box 655, East Syracuse, NY 13057

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