12/29/1981 -1/25/2024

Brad died suddenly, but peacefully at Barnes Hospital on January 25, 2024.

Brad is survived by his parents Richard and Bev Schaefer, his son Ryan Schaefer (Katie Bowling (Allen Bowling) Ryan’s mother), his sister Kara Wilkenson McCallum (Jason Walker fiancee), nieces Sofia Wilkenson and Charlotte McCallum. Brad is also survived by aunts, cousins and many friends.

Brad attended Word of Life Lutheran School, Lutheran South and Southeast Missouri State. He preferred hands-on work over a cubicle and fluorescent lights, working in industrial warehouses in many positions.

During the 10 years his family were foster parents to infants Brad could be found feeding, rocking, singing and dancing with the infants. When a baby wasn’t in his arms a kitten or cat was. He grew up with one or two cats, but also loved Pug dogs.

Brad was gifted with natural sports ability including soccer goalie, left handed pitcher and basketball forward. He played on school teams as well as select teams.

A talent he took for granted was his art ability. He began sketching at an early age and continued preferring pencils and chalk over paint.

Brad said the best thing he ever did was help create his handsome intelligent son. When Ryan visited, time was spent playing basketball, having light saber fights, drawing giant chalk figures in the alley. Swimming, video games, watching Star Wars movies and building with Legos were other favorites. Hearing their shrieks of laughter was music to one’s ears.

A favorite memory was a week spent in a cabin in the Smokey Mountains with Ryan and his mother, aunt, grandmother and great grandmother.

Brad was a true believer  and was never afraid to talk to others about his faith. He often read the Bible and would gladly admit he was helped through troubled times by God’s Word. His family is comforted to know he is safe now in God’s care.

Dear Brad, UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN

Per Brad’s request a private service will be held with immediate family at a later date.