Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held on on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at St. Stephen's Catholic Church, 525 Jackson St, Anoka, MN. Visitation at 10 am with Mass at 11 am. Luncheon to follow. Inurnment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery will take place at a later date.
Joe was born May 7, 1944 in Rockville Township to Louis Schaefer and Gertrude (Meinz) Schaefer. Joe married Karen (Duren) Lachowitzer on Sept. 8, 1980 in Anoka, MN. Joe served in the United States Army in Vietnam from June 6, 1965 and was honorably discharged on May 30, 1967. He worked at Onan - Cummins for 35 years. Joe loved spending time with his family and friends. He enjoyed camping and fishing. Joe was a devoted husband and father. Joe taught his son Joe to fish and they enjoyed the sport together as best friends. Joe was extremely proud of his son and his many talents. Joe had a great sense of humor and loved teasing people. He was known for his quick witted remarks. He will be sadly missed by all.
Joe is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Karen Schaefer; son, Joe; stepson, Greg (Lisa) Lachowitzer; granddaughter, McKenzie Lachowitzer; siblings, Armella (Ed) Kasparek, Vince (Audrey), Millie (Kevin) Weis, Peter (Janet), Kathy (David) Gross, Al (Joyce), Louis (Jane) and Bill (Renate); and many in-laws, nieces, nephews, grand and great-grand nieces, and nephews.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Elmer and Andy; sisters, Theresa Goman, Delphine Frank, and Evelyn Jost; and many in-laws.
We would like to thank the North Memorial Hospital Staff and the Mission Nursing Staff for all their help and kindness.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared below for the Schaefer family.
