Lynn M. Schaefer, 96

Lynn Mark Schaefer, born April 26, 1927, in Valentine, peacefully journeyed to his eternal rest February 3, 2024. Lynn was the third of six children born to Ted and Kathryn (Howe) Schaefer.

Lynn attended elementary and middle school in Littleburg and Mission, SD respectively. He finished his education at Valentine High School where he graduated in 1944.

Following high school, Lynn worked at White Eagle Mobil station owned by his brother Clem. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Darlene Schroeder. Lynn and Darlene exchanged vows in 1950, marking the beginning of a beautiful life together.

Lynn enlisted in the Army in 1952 and was stationed in Germany where he served as a telephone tech. During his time in Germany, Lynn had the opportunity to tour various parts of Europe. He was honorably discharged on January 6, 1954.

Following his military service, Lynn and Darlene settled in Martin, SD, where they operated the OK Court Motel and Drive-In owned by Darlene's father.

In October 1954, they moved to Valentine where they welcomed their first child, Suzanne, followed by Robert, Reggie, and Denise.

Lynn took great pride in becoming the very first letter carrier in Valentine for the U.S. Postal Service. Additionally, he owned and served as an agent for Schaefer Insurance for over 30 years.

Deeply committed to his Catholic faith, Lynn was instrumental in forming the Knights of Columbus in Valentine, ultimately becoming the first Grand Knight of his council. He was also an active member of the American Legion and VFW Post 5138. In his retirement years, Lynn managed the Valentine Veterans Club for two decades.

Lynn is survived by his younger sister, Ruthie Ferris, his children, Suzanne (Don) Baker, Robert (Janie) Schaefer, Reggie Bennett, and Denise (Ralph) Simons, 10 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

In heaven, Lynn has been joyfully reunited with his beloved wife, Darlene, his siblings Don, Clem, Raymond, and Eileen, as well as his grandson, David.

A mass of Christian burial for Lynn Schaefer was held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 8 at St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Valentine. The burial followed at Mount Hope Cemetery in Valentine.

The rosary was recited Wednesday, February 7 at 7:00 p.m. at the church. Lynn passed away on February 3 at the Good Samaritan Center in Atkinson.

Sandoz Chapel of the Pines in Valentine was entrusted with service arrangements.