GARNER — Perry Wayne Schaeffer, 82, a longtime Garner educator remembered for his curiosity, creativity and dedication to young people, passed away Monday, July 27, 2026.
No public funeral, memorial service or burial information was announced.
Perry was born August 15, 1943, in Eureka, South Dakota, to Floyd and Alvina Schaeffer. He graduated from Eureka High School and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Westmar College in Le Mars.
Music and athletics were important parts of Perry’s school years. He competed as a varsity wrestler in college and maintained an active, adventurous spirit throughout his life.
Perry married LaVaun Fischer on June 6, 1965. Their marriage spanned 61 years, during which they built a loving home and raised two sons, Bryon and Michael.
Education became Perry’s life’s work. He spent 34 years teaching junior high science, including 30 years with the Garner-Hayfield Community School District.
Students, colleagues and community members respected Perry for his commitment to teaching and his enthusiasm for discovery. He encouraged generations of young people to remain curious about the world around them.
Perry possessed an impressive range of talents and interests. He became a private pilot, tuned pianos, worked as a freelance cartoonist and earned recognition as an award-winning woodcarver.
His favorite outdoor activities included fishing, water skiing, sailing and kayaking.
Faith and community service were also important to Perry. He served as both a deacon and elder at Garner United Church of Christ.
Perry also devoted 22 years to the Garner Library Board, extending his lifelong commitment to education and public learning beyond the classroom.
He retired from teaching at age 55 and moved with LaVaun to Ankeny so they could live closer to their grandchildren.
The couple divided their retirement years between Ankeny and Mesa, Arizona. Together, they visited all 50 states, enjoyed numerous cruises and traveled to Australia, Canada, Mexico and several European countries.
Perry is survived by his wife, LaVaun; sons Bryon and Meghan Schaeffer and Michael and Allison Schaeffer; five grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; brother Ken and Kathleen Schaeffer; and sister Dorothy and David Dickens.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Rodney Schaeffer.
Perry leaves a legacy defined by devotion to family, enthusiasm for learning, service to his community and an extraordinary collection of talents.
Cataldo Funeral Home is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
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