Clarence Schaefer

Clarence Ben Schaefer, age 91 of Meire Grove, Minnesota, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on September 13, 2025.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, September 18 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Meire Grove with Rev. Mitchell Bechtold officiating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday and from 9 to 10 a.m. Thursday at the Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose. Parish prayers will be held at 4 p.m. followed by a Rosary at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday evening at the funeral home.

Clarence was born on January 9, 1934, near New Munich, to Paul and Mary (Hueve) Schaefer. He grew up rooted in faith, family, and farming—values that remained central throughout his life.

On September 3, 1966, Clarence married the love of his life and best friend, Mary Catherine Leither. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and devotion. Clarence and Mary were blessed with two children: Jeffery Schaefer of New Munich and Dorie (Schaefer) Ahmad of St. Louis, Missouri.

Clarence was a proud grandfather to Becca Weber-Borgerding, Kristin Weber, Becca Schaefer, Maddy Schaefer, Nicole Schaefer, and Mikey Schaefer. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Amelia and Ella Borgerding, and Louella Barkley. His family was his pride and joy, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

Clarence was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Hilda Weber and Leona Trattles; and brothers, Gerald Schaefer and Norbert Schaefer.

Farming was more than a livelihood for Clarence—it was his passion. He poured his heart and soul into the land and took great pride in his work. Beyond the fields, he enjoyed playing cards, hunting, and sharing time with his family and friends.

Clarence will be remembered for his faith, his love for the farm and his faithful companion, Charlie, and the kindness and warmth he extended to those around him. His legacy will live on in the lives of his family and the community he loved so deeply.