Michael “Mike” D. Shaffer

Michael “Mike” D. Shaffer passed away January 31, 2026, in Arbor Vitae, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, humor, and deep love for the people that mattered most to him.

Mike was born July 1, 1955, in Winona, Minn., to Richard Dean and Donna Ellen (Hanson) Shaffer and grew up in Rockford, Ill.

Mike loved the outdoors, especially being on the water. In his younger days, Mike was a decorated swimmer and talented slalom water skier. He enjoyed spraying onlookers as he raced by on the water. After a long career in the transportation industry, Mike embraced retirement by continuing his passion for craft projects and enjoyed stopping by Pruess’ Pub to lovingly bother his partner, Lola, while she worked.

Mike was a craftsman at heart and found joy in woodworking. He was known for standing with one hand on his hip, tobacco pipe in hand, lost in thought as he imagined what he would build (or cut down) next. His happiest days were spent at the cottage with family and friends, which usually included a sunset boat ride and a John Wayne Western. As the day wound down, he’d often say with a grin, “It would take a lot of this to kill a guy.”

Mike will be remembered as a great dad, a great friend, and a great man who loved life.

Mike is survived by his daughters, McKenna Shaffer and Hanna Shaffer; beloved life partner, Lola Beetem; children, Rachel (Tony) Murphy and Ron Emmeric, and grandsons, Adam and Alex; fur child, Foxy; sister, Kathi (Rodger) Clayton-Chaplain; nephews, Tony Johnson and Blake Shaffer, and many more family members, chosen family, and friends who will carry his stories and spirit forward.

He was preceded in death by parents, Richard, and Donna Shaffer; brother, Richard “Dick” Shaffer; sister, Janet Shaffer; niece, Kim Clatyon-Bush; and furry companions Taffy, BooBoos, Moose, and Bear, who we know were waiting to greet him, tails wagging.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Mike’s memory to Wounded Warrior Project or Ducks Unlimited.

Online condolences may be shared at www.nimsgernfuneral.com. Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services is serving the family.