Josef Schaffhauser

Josef Schaffhauser was a modest man, quiet and observant in his ways. He was trustworthy and traditional in his approach to his life and in his relationships. He was tough-minded with the kind of “stick to it” attitude that earned the respect of all who knew him. He was also a man who was meticulous, carefully disciplined, and orderly in virtually everything he undertook. Realistic about life, he was always at the ready, prepared to take on responsibility.

Josef was born on November 17, 1927 at his home in Djulovac, Yugoslavia, where he was raised and grew up. He was the son of Peter and Karolina Schaffhauser.

Josef was raised with two siblings. He had an older brother, Rudolf and a younger sister, Vicki. Josef was usually involved in all sorts of activities with his siblings. He and his siblings experienced rivalries typical of a growing family, but they shared many life experiences over the years.

As a young boy, Josef had a number of interests. Like most children, he enjoyed playing and making up games. He was curious about the world around him and was often eager to explore it. Josef was an active child who took part in soccer. However, to Josef, the most fun to be had was simply playing and spending time with his friends.

Always considered a “good” friend to those he knew, Josef enjoyed a broad group of acquaintances and several very close friends during his lifetime. While growing up, some of his best friends were Steve Plesinger and Michael Madicka.

On June 20, 1953 Josef exchanged wedding vows with Helga Metzger at St. Stephens Catholic Church of Los Angeles, California. Empathic and loyal, Josef was committed to making his new family happy.

Josef worked hard to be a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs. Josef was blessed with one daughter, Gert. Another blessing for Josef was the gift of two grandchildren, Robert and Natalie.

Fortunately, Josef enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Josef worked diligently and did his best to succeed in his career. His primary occupation was a poultry rancher. He was self employed for 40 years.

Josef enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were bowling, machines and cars. He was content to enjoy his favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share his interests with others.

Throughout his life, Josef was a doer and was always actively involved in professional and community organizations. Throughout his later years, Josef was an active member of the German/American Club.

Josef’s faith was important to him. He was a member of San Gorgonio (now Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha) Catholic Church.

Josef enjoyed traveling and time away on vacations. It was a chance for him to renew and relax, to visit new places and experience new things. Favorite vacations included Laughlin, Austria, Graz and his hometown in Croatia.

Josef was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of his favorites was a German Shepherd named Reggie. They were best friends for 10 years.

When Josef’s retirement finally arrived in 1992, he was well prepared. His new life involved staying in Beaumont where he lived for 55+ years. Even in retirement, Josef continued to stay in touch with his old friends while making plenty of new acquaintances. Josef was active in his new community and felt fulfilled with the opportunities retirement offered him.

He is survived by his daughter, Gert and her husband, Franjo; granddaughter, Natalie and her husband, Jason and grandson, Robert and his fiancée, Allyson. Services were held at Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Church, 1234 Palm Ave, Beaumont, California, Friday, February 4, 2011, at 3:00 PM.

Simply stated, Josef was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Josef leaves behind him a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Josef Schaffhauser.