Robert J. Schaffer

Robert John (Bob) Schaffer, 76, of North Whitehall, and formerly of Sugarloaf, PA, passed away on February 29, 2024, at Arden Courts of Allentown.   Born in Northampton, PA, on December 16, 1947, he was the son of George and Teresa (Seier) Pavelko.   

Bob graduated from Whitehall-Coplay High School and was stationed in Germany with the U.S. Army for two years.   Attending college on the GI Bill, Bob graduated with honors from East Stroudsburg University.

Bob taught secondary social studies in the Weatherly Area School District for 28 years, supervised student teachers, served on district and Intermediate Unit committees, and was an active member of the Weatherly Area Education Association.   Bob belonged to several other professional organizations, including the Pennsylvania State Education Association and National Education Association.

Bob was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Slatington, PA.

Bob is survived by his wife of 35 years, Jill (Heffelfinger) Schaffer; brothers Perry Schaffer and wife Karen, George Pavelko and his wife Suzanne; sisters-in-law, MaryAnn Schaffer and Carol Schaffer; brother-in-law, Dr. Eric Heffelfinger; uncle, James Schaffer; aunt, Marietta Iacocca; and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by brother Randy Schaffer, James Schaffer, and Daniel Pavelko.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at 11AM on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 40 S Second Street, Slatington.  A calling hour will precede the service beginning at 10AM.   Interment will follow at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Coplay, PA.

Bob’s family is grateful to his caregivers at Arden Courts for their kind and loving care during his illness.

In lieu of flowers, those inclined may make a donation to the Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research, FDR Station, PO Box 220, New York, NY 10150 or ELCA World Hunger Appeal.   Arrangements are being handled by Harding Funeral Home, Slatington, PA.