Nicholas Justin Shafer

Nicholas Justin “Nick” Shafer, age 41, formerly of Willard, Ohio, died suddenly, Monday, August 21, 2023, at his home in Scio.

Born February 19, 1982, in Willard, Ohio, he was the son of Robert E. Shafer and Imagene Smith Shafer, with whom he resided. Nick graduated from Willard High School in 2001 and worked as a manger at McDonald’s and Hardee’s, was the general manager at Wendy’s and a foreman at Flex Pack all in Willard prior to moving to Scio. He spent many years camping and fishing on Tappan Lake and was blessed to become the kitchen manager at The Water’s Edge Kitchen and Bar at Tappan Lake Marina; working at the place that brought him so much peace and happiness. Nick had been a member of the Willard Church of God and showed his Christian spirit with his big heart, helping anyone that needed money, a kind word or just a hug. He also enjoyed simple cookouts with family and friends.

Surviving in addition to his parents, is his sister Catherine Shafer and nephew Tyler Shafer of the home, aunts and uncles Shirley Jones, Rick Shafer, John Shafer, Peggy Dull, Sharon Combs, Paul Shafer, Shirlene Meacham, Junior Smith, Jack Spradlin and Larry (Mary) Smith and numerous cousins he loved, especially Larry Smith Jr, whom he loved like a brother.  

He was preceded in death by grandparents Henry and Catherine Shafer, Genevieve Shultz, Silas Smith and Mable Barnett Rinker, aunts and uncles Henry Shafer, Connie Jones, Gary Shafer, Charles Shafer, infant Karen Louise Shafer, Janice Shepherd, James Smith and Diane Platt.

Services will be held Wednesday at 1 pm in Koch Funeral Home, 101 W Main St, Scio with Rev. Gregory Griffith officiating. Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery, Jewett. Friends may call two hours prior to the service on Wednesday, from 11 am to 1 pm at the funeral home. www.kochfuneral.com

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