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In memory of

Wayne Kenneth Shaffer

Walled Lake, MI, USA

March 28, 1957 - May 4, 2021

Mar 28, 1957 - May 4, 2021

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Wayne K. Shaffer, 64 years old, died unexpectedly on May 4, 2021 in Walled Lake, Michigan. Wayne was raised in Rochester, New York where he spent most of his life. He is predeceased by his beloved parents Eleanor Shaffer and Thomas Wallace Shaffer, and his dog Jake. He is survived by his daughter Corinne Hopkins (Ross), son Colin Shaffer, stepmother Gwen Shaffer, sister Wendy Shaffer, half sister Janna Hamaker (Jon) and nephews Joed and Jessup, former wife Mindy Shaffer, many cherished relatives in the Jacob and Marken families, his dear friend Christine Dowd, and many other special friends.

Wayne had a zest for life and was a tender soul. He loved music in all forms; particularly listening to classic rock such as the Beatles and Eric Clapton, collecting all kinds of musical instruments, and playing guitar or bluegrass banjo. Like many of his maternal relatives, he dearly loved animals and especially dogs. Many will also remember his distinct personal style, including his vast collection of belts and cowboy boots.

He studied at the University of Houston, Texas State Technical Institute, the University of Rochester, and the Rochester Institute of Technology. His life’s work was in the laser field. He worked with a few large corporations such as Kodak, Brother, and IPG Photonics, and was also self-employed as a scientist/engineer with a number of patents to his name. His work was detailed and his contributions to the field were innovative.

Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life gathering on Sunday, August 22, 2021 in Rochester, NY at Ontario Beach Park any time between 2 and 5pm.

There will be a private graveside service for family in Saltville, VA where he will be buried next to his father.

Contributions in Wayne’s memory may be made to the Humane Society of Rochester, Bright Star German Shepherd Rescue in Rochester, or to the American Cancer Society.

Obituary kindly written by Wayne’s cousin Carrie Reilly.

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