Final Salute

Calvin Shafer “Pi Day Man”, born March 14, 1955, in Erie, son of the late John and Beaulah Bessetti Shafer, passed away peacefully at Saint Vincent Hospital surrounded by his loving family on Monday, September 2, 2024 following an extended illness.
After attending Iroquois High School, Calvin served in the United States Naval Construction Battalion, “Navy Sea Bees” for 20 years as a reservist. He earned the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (NAM), along with several other awards, completing numerous non-profit projects in his community and around the world. Calvin purposely designed the extra-large gazebo at the Soldiers and Sailors Home so that disabled veterans would be able to also enjoy the outdoors. Under his leadership with the Sea Bees’ “can-do attitude” of the 23rd Construction Battalion, they raised the gazebo in eight days. Calvin was made an Honorary Marine and a lifelong member of Outdoor Odyssey at Roaring Run for his outstanding “can-do attitude” by demonstrating the power of spirit of others before self and devotion to duty. That’s the kind of man he was.
Calvin worked for General Electric, Tim Shafer and Sons Construction, AMRE Building Systems, Inc. and operated multiple small businesses. Building construction was Calvin’s passion, making him the go to guy. His knowledge and talents will surely be missed. Calvin will be remembered for his caring generosity and for having the biggest heart. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and his love for his family was immense.
Calvin was also known as the “Grill Master” and enjoyed music and fast cars. The love for the Oldsmobile 442 was in his soul. Calvin loved history, metal detecting for treasures and visiting battlefields, Gettysburg being his favorite. He was always in search of communicating with spirits. Calvin was fascinated by paranormal activity and was a lifelong Pittsburgh Steelers fan.
In addition to his parents, Calvin was preceded in death by his son, Angelo Shafer; his sister, Pamela Shafer; and nephew, Troy Shafer. Calvin is survived by his loving wife, Lois Hammill Shafer; daughters, Victoria, Kristine and Holly; son, Joel (Bailey); grandchildren, Merissa (Bradley), Madison, Miranda, Kaylee, Kami, Kendall, Shaina, Ryder and Parker; great-grandchildren, Liam, Roman and Naomi; brothers, Timothy (Janet) and Kurt (Darla); sister, Linda (John) Chabola; and several nieces and nephews.
Per Calvin’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. Private arrangements are being handled by the Dusckas Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 2607 Buffalo Rd. Memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children, 1645 West 8th Street, Erie, PA 16505.
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