Gene Austin Schaefer

Gene A. Schaefer passed away peacefully Thursday, April 30, 2026. Gene was born September 27, 1958, to the late Cyril J. and Helen (nee Bramley) Schaefer. Gene was a beloved brother, uncle, cousin and friend to many. A lifelong resident of Valley City, Gene graduated from Buckeye High School in 1977. He was a proud volunteer for the Valley City Fire and Rescue department, eventually retiring after nearly 40 years with the rank of captain. He was also one of the founding members of the department's rescue squad. He was the co-owner of Schaefer Plumbing with his brother Paul and worked as a plumber for most of his life. He was a lifelong member of St. Martin's Catholic Church in Valley City and served the church as an usher. Gene will be remembered for his enormous heart, wry sense of humor and willingness to lend a hand whenever he was called upon. He loved rooting for the Cleveland Browns, playing golf with his friends, and tending the grounds at the Schaefer family farm. He and his vintage fire engine were an annual fixture in the Valley City July 4th parade, and the back of his truck was open to anyone who wanted to ride along. Anyone who met him can attest that he was truly one of a kind. If you knew him, hoist one in his honor. Gene is survived by his brothers, Mark (Debbie) and Paul (Karen) Schaefer; sisters, Anne (Ken) Barth, Martha (Al) Urban, and Laura (Paul) Litvin; and his companion, Linda Williams, and also many nieces and nephews Preceded in death by his nephew, Daniel Schaefer, and sister-in-law, Patti Schaefer. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church or the Valley City Fire and Rescue Department. Calling hours will be held at the St. Martin of Tours Church gathering area (1800 Station Rd., Valley City) on Monday, May 4, 2026 from 3 to 7:30 p.m. and on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 from 10 to 11:15 a.m., with Mass of Christian Burial following at 11:30 a.m. in the chapel of St. Martins and interment in St. Martin's cemetery. The Bauer Funeral Home, Valley City has the honor of serving Gene's family.