David John Lee Schaffner

Dave Schaffner of Oceanside, California passed away on March 13, 2026 at the young age of 71. He was born on March 10, 1955 in Columbus, Ohio to Paul David Schaffner and Ma Prem Jeevan, née Janet Beatrice Laken Schaffner.

He was a musician’s musician. He taught himself to play guitar around 5 years old, when his Grandma Francie brought home a ’ukelele from Hawai’i. He also taught himself to sing, play guitar, piano, bass, including stand-up acoustic bass. He had perfect pitch, rare among musicians.

Dave organized, joined, and performed in solo gigs and with bands in myriad venues across musical styles.

He attended Los Angeles Free School and graduated from Cal-State San Bernardino with a Bachelor’s degree.

Dave worked his whole life a variety of “day jobs” as he played gigs usually four nights a week. For 16 years he worked at the State of California Department of Unemployment—active in his Union and always planning social events for holidays there.

Dave Schaffner was a singular force of nature: creative, hilarious, fun-loving, bright, and lovingly involved with many friends and families. He particularly enjoyed cruises with his wife, Vikki. He will be sadly missed and will live on in our hearts forever.

He was preceded in death by his parents and older brother Bob Schaffner of Los Angeles scientology community.

Dave is survived by his wife, Vikki, his brother Bill, his sister Laurie, and his niece Cara—and was so proud to say “his six grandchildren.” His larger circle of family and friends will miss him greatly.

The family would like to thank his caregivers and friends for the care and compassion they showed our beloved Dave in his final days. A Celebration of Life will be determined in the near future.