William Joseph Schaff: 1933 - 2024
William Schaff passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 23, 2024, surrounded by family. His was a life well lived. His family is ever so grateful for the example of love, patience and resiliency that he demonstrated every day.
William was born in Lampman, Saskatchewan on June 6, 1933. William and Florina (nee Nadon) were married on July 10, 1956. They lovingly welcomed their five children, and they worked tirelessly together to build their life on the farm. Dad's actions demonstrated his deep love and commitment to family.
William farmed the land where he had been born and raised. His favourite activity was to walk out to his fields and check on the progress of his crop. He reluctantly moved off the farm and to Estevan in 2004, to Regina in 2017 and finally to Saskatoon in 2021. His address may have changed a few times during his life, but anyone who knew him realized that the farm always remained his home.
William valued education. His own formal schooling ended prematurely due to family circumstances, but at the end of a long day working in the fields he could often be found sitting in a chair poring over a book. William was determined that his children would be given opportunities in education that he never had, and Mom and Dad always made it clear that all of their children would continue on to post secondary education. William's commitment to education prompted him to serve as a member of the school board for many years. His unwavering support for education was evident both at home and in his public service.
William was a man who loved to laugh. He never missed an opportunity to tell a joke or share a humorous story. He was often laughing so hard that it was tough for anyone to understand what he was saying, but it was impossible not to join in with his laughter.
Mom and Dad endured the loss of their daughter Jacqueline in 1985.
William is lovingly remembered by his wife, Florina, and by his children, Glenda (Gerry), Beverly, Gregory, and Michelle (Michel); grandchildren, Bradley (Shelly), Brenna (Scott), Brett (Marilyn), Connor (Natalie), Rachelle (Gavin), Taryn (Haiqi), Meagan and Cadie (Thomas); great grandchildren, Daniel, Alexandria and Asher; sister, Agnes Krupka as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.
William was predeceased by his parents, Mary and Jacob Schaff, and siblings, Gertrude Elder, Michael Schaff, Catherine Burak, Lillian Bill, Marie Bill, Irene Mulberry and Anne Perowski.
The Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. John the Baptist R.C. Church in Estevan, Saskatchewan on Thursday, November 28, 2024, at 10:30 presided by Father Stephen Bill. Interment of ashes took place at Our Lady of Seven Sorrows Parish Cemetery in Lampman. A time of fellowship was held in the parish hall following the Mass.
In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of William can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of your choice.
Hall Funeral Services in Estevan provided care to the Schaff family – Dustin Hall, Funeral Director.
