Frederick V. Schaeffer Jr.

NORRIDGEWOCK – Frederick V. Schaeffer, Jr., 83, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, outdoorsman, and lifelong adventurer, passed away peacefully on Oct. 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Fred was born and raised in Horsham, Pa., and graduated from Hatboro-Horsham High School in 1960. He proudly served six years in the United States Navy, beginning in May 1959. Fred met the love of his life, Mary Ann Rosetta, on a blind date, and they married on May 23, 1964.

Fred, by trade, was an electrical and instrumentation technician, working for Fischer & Porter Company in Warminster, Pa. for 15 years and then for 23 years at the SAPPI Somerset Mill in Skowhegan, after he boldly made the decision to move his family to Maine seeking a better quality of life.

Fred loved being part of his community and spent many years involved with groups like the Norridgewock Sportsmen Association, Skowhegan-Madison Elks Lodge, American Legion Riders, Patriot Guard, and the Bangor H.O.G. Chapter. Whether it was a charity ride on his Harley, or a snowmobile run to raise money for Toys For Tots, Pine Tree Camp or other causes dear to his heart, Fred gave his time freely and with a smile. Fred loved the outdoors, finding peace in hunting and fishing. When not in the woods or on the water, he could be found on his Harley Davidson motorcycle enjoying the freedom of the open road.

Fred lived a full and active life centered around family and adventure. He and Mary Ann traveled the country together, often making memories riding their Harleys side by side. After retirement, they spent winters in Eustis, Fla. making memories and lasting friendships. As a father, he shared his love of the outdoors with his children taking them camping, fishing, and hunting, teaching them to appreciate time spent together. He was a constant supporter of their activities—from football to field hockey to Little League Baseball. He had a special way of making holidays memorable for the family, and always wrote a heart-felt message in every card. Fred’s greatest joy was being there for his family.

Fred was especially devoted to his grandchildren and took great joy in being part of their lives. Whether it was at softball, baseball, or basketball games, dance recitals, an occasional golf match or a grandparents’ breakfast, Fred never missed a chance to be there for his grandchildren.

Fred was the kind of person you always felt better after talking with – kind, genuine, and quick with a smile. He had a way of making everyone around him feel valued and at ease. His humor, generosity, and unwavering love left a lasting mark on all who knew him. Fred’s memory will live on through the countless lives he touched and the joy he brought to those around him.

Fred is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Mary Ann; children Colleen Bailey (Mark), Jennifer Schaeffer-McDaniel (Dale), and Matthew Schaeffer (Angela); grandchildren Joshua (Abigail), Tyler (fiancé Natalie), Vanessa (Gage), and Gabriella; great-grandson, Cooper; sister, Catherine Tiblis; and many nieces and nephews.

Fred was predeceased by his parents Frederick and Mildred Schaeffer; sister, Dorothy Gottschall, sister, Annagrace Groves, sister, Lucille Maddocks and brother, Paul Clark.

Visiting hours will be held on Saturday, Oct. 25 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Sunday, Oct. 26 at 1 p.m., followed by a remembrance reception. All events will be held at the Somerset Valley Remembrance Center in Skowhegan.

Please visit Fred’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/frederick-schaeffer-jr where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Pine Tree Camp Society at https://pinetreesociety.org/camp-home/.