John Peter Shaffer

John “Pete” Peter Shaffer, 72, of Metamora, Ohio, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2023, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on June 11, 1951, in Toledo, Ohio, to his late parents, Charles and Sylvia (Mossing) Shaffer; where he grew up and later attended Metamora High School before graduating from Evergreen in 1969. In high school, Pete met the woman he would later marry, then Catherine “Cathy” Bettinger, although they never dated in school. It wasn’t until after he graduated that the two connected and began the start of what would turn into 51 years of faithful marriage together. The two sincerely loved each other. Pete and Cathy raised three children together, and he loved them so dearly. He was always a reliable attendee to both his children’s and grandchildren’s events, whether it was sports games, pageants, or anything in between. He was incredibly supportive and made a point to always stay family oriented. He was affectionately known to his family as “Pistol” and “Papa Pete.”

During his career, Pete worked diligently as a drywall plasterer who was very proud of his work and had a great work ethic. He always found a way to subtly initial the jobs he completed and would never shy away from full 10-hour days before going home to begin some side work. Pete made a big decision to pursue work opportunities in Alaska, so he lived there for 3 years before Cathy and the children joined him for the remaining 2. In his spare time, Pete enjoyed winding down by going fishing or playing a round of golf. He had a lifelong interest in motorcycles, specifically Harley’s, and later joined a bike gang called the Fats Forkers.

Pete was a strong father who truly gave great advice and always set the bar high by upholding his golden rules. While his family was undoubtedly the most important thing in his life, Pete would surely mention how much he loved his two German Shepherds, Pistol and Speedy. He was a cherished individual and will be extremely missed by all of his family and friends who knew and loved him.

Pete is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Cathy Shaffer; children, Sheila (Matt) Vaculik, Zack (Cathy) Shaffer, Tara (Howard) Ice; grandchildren, Hunter, Avah, Zack, Emily, Nick, Nathan, Shyla, and Aliya. Josh, Shelby and baby Riggs also held a special place in Papa Pete’s heart. He was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter, Sierah Joughin; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A celebration of life will be held on July 9th from 4 pm until 7 pm at 16737 Co. Rd. 6 in Metamora to honor Pete’s life and the legacy he leaves behind. Though we may shed tears, let us also share stories, laughter, and cherished memories. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in honor of Pete be made to Justice for Sierah (https://justiceforsierah.org/donate) or Dirty Paws Agape Haven (https://www.dirtypawsagapehaven.dog/donate). Condolences may be sent at walkerfuneralhomes.com