Obituary of John Bock Schaefer

John Bock Schaefer, 79, of Chippewa area Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania completed his earthly work and passed into glory Saturday morning, May 6, 2017. John was born on May 16, 1937 to John P. and Ruth Bock Schaefer John is survived by his wife of 55 years, Lois, daughter Deborah, sons Jonathan (Dianne), Paul (Brenda), David (Joy), Mark (Rachel), brother James (Kit) and 18 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents. John recently retired from Geneva College where he taught science and engineering courses for over 50 years. John graduated in 1959 from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and then completed his graduate work at the Carnegie Institute of Technology in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. A gifted musician, he played and taught cello, playing professionally in a string quartet, and with local high school orchestras for musicals. John was a lifelong learner, often reading several books in a single day. He enjoyed astronomy and was instrumental in the creation of the John Paul Schaefer Memorial Observatory at Geneva College. John served as a ruling elder at the Eastvale Reformed Presbyterian Church, teaching classes and leading congregational singing in worship services. John was known to be a wise, strong, gentle and generous man. Though his academic credentials could have opened many doors, his life's calling was teaching. When asked about his choice of profession, he replied, "It's a shame they have to pay me for something I love to do!" A graveside service for family members was held at the Reformed Presbyterian Cemetery in New Galilee at 4:00pm, May 7, 2017. A Memorial Service will be held May 27, 2017 at the First Reformed Presbyterian Church on Darlington Road in Patterson Heights at 10:00am. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Eastvale Reformed Presbyterian Church, 504 2nd Avenue, Beaver Falls, PA 15010. Online condolences can be made at: www.campbellfuneralhomes.com