Earl Dane (Buddy) Shafer, 77, of Coatesville, PA passed away peacefully at home in his favorite chair on Sunday February 9, 2025, preparing to watch the Super Bowl. Earl was born on September 14, 1947 in Morehead, KY to Hugh M. and Wilma Stewart Shafer, lately of Fairview, WV. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his former wife, Doris McCarroll Shafer. He is also father to Joy C Bruton (Francis) of Coatesville, PA and has one sister, Brenda C. Shafer of Mt. Morris, PA, as well as numerous cousins. He is also survived by his fiancé, Eugenia (Jeannie) Vanover of Wilmington, DE and her loving family.
Earl graduated from Haverford High School of Havertown, PA and Penn State Turfgrass Management program, graduating at the top of his class. He went on to become one of a very few professionally Registered Golf Course Superintendents in the state of Delaware. In 1970 he began his 30-year productive career as Superintendent at The Dupont Country Club in Wilmington, DE, where for several years he prepared the courses for the LPGA McDonald's championship. He later worked for Double D Turf another 20 years starting in 2004. He made many friends throughout his career.
Earl was considered a workaholic, but also an avid sportsman enjoying fishing, hunting, boating, and skiing in his younger years. He loved all things mechanical and his greatest passion of the past 25 years was driving his special car at NHRA drag racing events with his friends. During his young life, Earl earned the honor of Eagle Scout. He also played the trumpet in various bands, including once marching in the Mummers Parade in Philadelphia. Earl loved nature and had a great compassion for his many pets over the years, especially his beloved cat families. He was a great listener and friend and will be missed by many people.
Please join the family for a viewing on Tuesday, February 18 from 4 to 7 pm at McCrery & Harra Funeral Home, 3924 Concord Pike, Wilmington DE. There will be a service at 5:30 and light dinner throughout. Earl will be buried beside his parents on Olive United Methodist Church Cemetery in Prentress, WV. The graveside committal service will take place on Friday, February 21, attended by family only.
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