Obituary of James A. Shaffer

James A. Shaffer, 89, of South Canaan passed away peacefully on Wednesday morning, April 11, 2018 in the comfort of his own home while holding the hand of his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Shelvie (Savitz) Shaffer.  Jim and Shelvie were married on June 14, 1958 in the former Varden Bible Protestant Church.

Born August 3, 1928 in Shamokin, PA, he was the son of the late Peter and Thelma (Dent) Shaffer.  Jim’s mother died when he was only four years old.  After her death, he was placed in an orphanage where he was raised.  He graduated from Scotland School for Veteran’s Children in Scotland, PA.

After graduation, Jim went to work on a dairy farm in Lakeville. Jim met Shelvie when she was just 16 at a Dairyman’s League Young Co-Op meeting; they began dating, and in 1952, Jim answered the call to serve in the United States Army Medical Corps during the Korean Conflict.  Shelvie and Jim corresponded by writing letters, remaining faithful to each other until his return and their marriage in 1958. Jim was very proud of his military service and his honorable discharge as a Corporal.

Jim was a well-known and well-loved man in his community.  He worked for many years at the former Honesdale Milling Co and went on to work in the Western Wayne High School as a custodian for more than 20 years.  During this time, Jim owned and operated Pocono Welding at his South Canaan home.  This business which he founded still operates today. Years ago, Jim was often seen at the Wayne County Fair dressed as a clown giving balloons to children and making them smile.  An avid supporter of the Wayne County Republican Party, Jim and Shelvie attended the annual Lincoln Day Dinner for more than 35 years. He was a member of the South Canaan Free Methodist Church, and the American Legion Post 807 SSgt. Paul A. Sweeney in Hamlin.

In addition to his wife, Jim is also survived by his son, Harry Shaffer and his wife Nancy of South Canaan; 3 granddaughters, 2 great-grandsons, and 2 great-granddaughters; several nieces, nephews, cousins, and a large extended family.

He was preceded in death by three children:  Brenda Kay Shaffer, Jean Marie Shaffer, and James A. Shaffer, Jr.

The last remaining member of his childhood family, he was preceded in death by all of his siblings.

Memorial Services will be held on Thursday, April 19, 2018 at 6:00 P.M. in the South Canaan Free Methodist Church, 19 St. Tikhon’s Road, South Canaan, PA with Pastor William Rushik officiating. The services will conclude with military honors.

Friends and family may visit on Thursday from 5:00 – 6:00 P.M. in the East Room of the church.

Private interment will be in South Canaan Bible Protestant Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jim's memory to American Legion Post 807 SSgt. Paul A. Sweeney, Box 130 Hamlin, PA 18427.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Jenkins-Howell Funeral Home Inc. Edward Howell, Funeral Director/Supervisor, 269 Belmont St. Waymart, PA 18472.  www.JenkinsHowellFuneralHome.com