Tribute Wall
Friday
29
January
Mass of Christian Burial
10:00 am - 10:45 am
Friday, January 29, 2021
St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church
15 Myers Avenue
Denville, New Jersey, United States
973-627-0269
Friday
29
January
Drive By Visitation
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Friday, January 29, 2021
Private Residence
25 Memory Lane
Denville, New Jersey, United States
Saturday
30
January
Graveside Service
11:30 am - 12:00 pm
Saturday, January 30, 2021
Holy Cross Cemetery
1810 Jay Street
Lebanon, Pennsylvania, United States
(717)273-7541
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GySgt Andrew J. Svaby Sr. USMCR (ret.) PHS '68 posted a condolence
Friday, October 6, 2023
Remember Gil for being one of the most knowledgeable wrestling referees in THEN District 13! Had that charisma and effervescence to keep ROWDY crowds under control! R.I.P.!
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Michele Shaffer Posted Oct 7, 2023 at 8:06 AM
Report
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Michael Guarino III lit a candle
Wednesday, February 3, 2021
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To the Shaffer family, I'm so sorry for your loss. Please know that you are all in my prayers.
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Quinn & Jude Sinnott posted a condolence
Wednesday, February 3, 2021
Mrs. Shaffer, Tim & Jackie, and Shaffer Family members.
The Oregon, Nevada, California, Florida, Virginia and Maryland Sinnott Families extend our very sincere condolences to the Shaffer families on this sad occasion. Gil clearly brought a lot of happiness, cheer and sparkle to all who had the opportunity to meet and know him. Gil's exemplary personal example brightened all of our lives during his long and very productive life.
If there is anything we may do to assist, please let us know. Tim and Jackie know how to reach us.
Quinn & Jude Sinnott
for the William V. Sinnott Families
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Gail Fauerbach lit a candle
Wednesday, February 3, 2021
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My deepest Condolences to all of Gils family, he was a fantastic person, who will be missed not only by his family, but by everyone that knew him. Prayers go out to all of you.
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Stacey Murphy posted a symbolic gesture
Saturday, January 30, 2021
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To Mrs Shaffer and all, John said so much for both of us - his memories of Mr Shaffer at Morristown High, and getting to know him as the Mayor of Memory Lane...I just wanted to add that I have such great memories as well! And I always felt like it was such a gift he gave us all by taking a job at Foodtown. As we know, Foodtown only hired nice people, and Mr Shaffer must have been employee of the month all the time. I knew I couldn't have a bad day if I saw him at the register. As John said, he didn't just teach content, he taught character, and he was the kind of person you wanted to be around so you could face the day as a better version of yourself. We will miss him so. Lots of love, Stacey
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Gary White posted a condolence
Saturday, January 30, 2021
Condolences to the family of Mr.Shaffer. I had the honor to be coached by Mr Shaffer for football. In addition to teaching me the skills to play the game, he was a great mentor in helping me as I moved forward in life. I will always remember his sense of humor and guidance.
Gary White, Co-Captain of class of 1963 football team, Morristown High School.
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Gene and Carol Podeszwa posted a condolence
Saturday, January 30, 2021
Whenever we think of Gil, it’s someone with a smile on his face. We always had good times and laughter. Such a good family man and hard worker. Remember the night shift at Bambergers. He left a great legacy in his wonderful family.
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Jonathan Fletcher posted a condolence
Friday, January 29, 2021
I was the throwing coach at Morristown High for many years, and Gil would officiate all of our home duel meets. He remembered me from my days as a student and we always had fun friendly conversations!! I loved how no nonsense he was. Track meets always went very fast and efficiently when Mr. Shaffer was there!! He was always a pleasure to talk to! RIP!!
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Tom Mpakarakes lit a candle
Friday, January 29, 2021
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Tom Mpakarakes Posted Jan 29, 2021 at 7:36 PM
My family and I will always remember Gil's big smile and sense of humor. We were very grateful to have him help out at J&M Gourmet, especially during the busy holidays! My wife Carol enjoyed seeing him at Foodtown, too. I will always remember him and Kay inseparable. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
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Heller family posted a condolence
Friday, January 29, 2021
We purchased our first home on Memory Lane over twenty-five years ago. Lucky for us, Kay and Gil were our next-door neighbors. Gil watched our family grow and was always taking interest in our everyday activities. He cared about us. Always asking how everyone was doing, what was new, and he was excited about our successes. When the girls were little, they loved going out to the yard to help Mr. Shaffer pick up the sticks, there were a lot of them, and put them in his barrel. He loved that they loved to help. He was always generous to us. One of our favorite gifts was the pretzels he would bring home from his trips to Lebanon. Shuey's pretzels. So good. We grew and got to know each other very well. We both would be taking care of the lawn, quite common for Gil, and he would always want to share a can of bud or two. He was always caring, smiling, and laughing. He is the cornerstone of Memory Lane. Cheers Mr. Shaffer.
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Denise Penn posted a condolence
Friday, January 29, 2021
My condolences to the Schaffer family. Having known Mr. Schaffer through MHS and my dad, the one quality I always admired was he always had a smile and a hearty greeting for you! As a graduate of MHS it’s hard to see this old guard of educators leave but know that they have left their mark on my life.
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Dave, Madison & Adam lit a candle
Thursday, January 28, 2021
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Uncle Gil and I didn’t always see eye to eye.
He was the voice of reason and I was wild and unruly.
He touched so many lives during his time with us.
He was a teacher at heart, whether he taught through coaching, parenting, mentoring or friendship.
Gil found a way to teach life’s lessons, often subtly, with a simple observation.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
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Laura Skowronski posted a condolence
Thursday, January 28, 2021
More years ago than I care to remember, I was a student in Gil Shaffer's US History I class at MMH. Who knew then that we would be co-workers teaching at Frelinghuysen MS. Gil was a great guy, a true family man, a man of honor, and someone who would always have your back. So many fun times were had and in most recent years we enjoyed our "Frelinghuysen gang" dinners at Forte where we laughed and shared old memories. Gil, you will be greatly missed.
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Bob Stepanian posted a condolence
Thursday, January 28, 2021
Our condolences to the entire Shaffer family. Anytime I saw Mr. Shaffer he would greet you with that great big smile. He was one of the good ones.
Love, Bob and Patty Stepanian
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Mary Beth Vatcher posted a condolence
Thursday, January 28, 2021
May the roads rise up to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
May the rains fall soft upon fields
And until we meet again
May God hold you in the palm of his hand.
God Bless You Gilman....
Mary Beth, Jon, Ryan & Conor Vatcher
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Jay Lipper posted a condolence
Thursday, January 28, 2021
Gil was a great leader, educator, father, husband and friend. He was a kind soul. I’ll miss him.
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Joann Brennan posted a condolence
Thursday, January 28, 2021
Kay, Michele and family, I just heard this and I am so sad. I knew that Gil had had some issues but did not think it was this bad. He will be missed. I remember meeting him the first time as I was doing my morning walk with a Lafayette sweatshirt on. He rolled down his car window and yelled "Go Leopards". That was the beginning a a nice friendship. I also learned later that he had known my husband for years through his coaching days at Morristown HS and Bernie at Delbarton. .
I will miss him "tooting" at me as I walking and he and Kay are on their way to Mass. A lot of times a fast drive by as he was close to starting time of mass!!
A lovely man.
I will not be able to attend the Mass on Friday but will try to do the drive by. Much love to all and know that my prayers are with you.
Joan
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JoEllen Mitchell posted a condolence
Thursday, January 28, 2021
Gil was always there for us professionally and personally when we were one, big, happy family at Frelinghuysen. I will always remember those days with love and much laughter. My condolences to his family and especially to his wife, Kay.
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Kathy Kenny posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
So sorry for your loss I first met Mr Shaffer as a freshman at Morristown High School in 1960 I was in his home room for 4 years and I have such fond memories of him as a teacher and someone who watched over his students. He always had a great smile and and a twinkle is is eye! I was a cheerleader so got to travel with the football team to away games and Mr Shaffer ( as we called him then) always watched out for all of us. He was a great educator and always encouraged all of us to do your best! My thought and prayers are with your family. Kathy Williamson Kenny
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Susan and Michael Ploehn posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Remembering all the good times
we shared when we lived on Memory Lane. Love, Susan and Mike.
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Dot and Jim Frendak posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
Kay and the rest of the Shaffer family, please accept our condolences. Gil will always be remembered as a gentleman by anyone who had the time to get to know him.
Dot and Jim Frendak
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Marti stehr lit a candle
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
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He was a good friend . I knew him from Foodtown for many years and then for the Denville senior . My hearts go out for his family Kay and her family .
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Maryann begay posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
Our deepest sympathies to your family. We have you in our thoughts and prayers.
Maryann &Sam Colella
Syracuse, NY
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William Amaducci posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
Fondly remember working with Gil many summers forHenry Mola , a Mt Lakes contractor. Gil was an inspiration to me and fellow coworkers. William Amaducci
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John P Fredrick posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
Thank you Gil Shaffer for your encouragement and support during the 1963 MHS football season. It was a great joy to speak with you at our 50th reunion in 2014 after almost 50 years had passed. Thank you for mentoring and teaching the truly important values so important for young men to learn during our formative years.
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Pat and Karalee Smith posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
Pat remembers Gil as a tough but inspirational football coach at Morristown High School. Years later , he continued to inspire Pat to be a coach for the Denville Blue Angels where he had the pleasure of coaching the Shaffer boys. Gil was an ever present, supportive parent on the sideline of every game.
Karalee remembers interacting with both Gil and Kay during many Lakeview School activities and programs. They never missed a single one.
If there was a Denville event or community project , you could count on Gil and Kay to be full participants.
Gil will be missed but never forgotten. Rest in Peace.
Pat and Karalee Smith
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Carla and Bob Schechner posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
Gill was a wonderful man, great teacher, coach and friend. He will be missed by all whose lives he touched. The world is less rich with his passing!
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Bonnie Cattano posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
Kay, keeping you and all your family in my thoughts and prayers at this sad time.
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John Kurbel lit a candle
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
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A man’s man, one of a kind. A true friend and mentor. RIP
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Robert Curnow posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
My condolences to the Shaffer family. I had the pleasure of meeting coach Shaffer during my wrestling with the MHS wrestling team.(63-65). Coach Shaffer was one of those teachers that after you met him you would never forget him.
Robert Curnow
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judith spinola posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
Gil was a true gentleman, a charismatic leader, and the best vice principal Frelinghuysen Middle School ever had. The students and teachers loved and respected him; when he retired, his leadership was greatly missed. For many years Gil welcomed my fifth graders and me to Frelinghuysen orientation. My class was always greeted by an enthusiastic man who gave us the grand tour and made us feel at home immediately. To my dad, Gil was a true friend who welcomed him when he began his substitute work at Frelinghuysen and helped make Frelinghuysen his second home. More than any other role, Gil took pride in his wonderful family. He always spoke with love and pride of the many achievements of Annie, Molly, and Colleen, whom I taught at Sacred Heart.
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Shaffer family on your great loss. Take comfort in knowing that he is in God's hands, for the Lord is so proud of Gil's life here on earth. His life touched thousands of students by his guidance and genuine caring spirit.
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Pat Mulligan lit a candle
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
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I’m so sorry for your loss. I will always remember Gil from Foodtown. I shopped there all the time.May he Rest In Peace.
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Bryan Flynn posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
Mr Shaff was one of a kind. Boy did he light up when he looked at Mrs Shaff. His love for her was undeniable. Always proud of his family but never in a bragging way. I was fortunate to have him officiate many of my matches. He never gave me any special treatment even though he lived in town. You had to earn it!! On my way off the mat he would give me a wink and then whisper nice job. Patty and I are away but we are thinking of you guys through these difficult days. Our thoughts and prayers are with you!!
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The Dreisbach Family lit a candle
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
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The Dreisbach Family posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
We are so sorry to hear of your father's passing. We wish you much comfort and peace!
Love & Hugs,
The Dreisbach family
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Bill Harris posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
Never just a handshake always an arm drag.
Rest in peace my friend.
Prayers to the entire family
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John Murphy lit a candle
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
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I Remember Mr. Shaffer from my time at Morristown High, always pleasant, considerate and respectful all the whilst building character in my fellow athletes. Many years later I would come to know him as a neighbor on Beacon Hill, meeting him many, many times, he taught me to be respectful and therefore I would always address him as Mr. Shaffer(lesson learned). Gil he would insist, “we’re not in school”. He was in my mind the Mayor of Memory Lane, and we often engaged on Beacon Hill goings on. He was a delight to meet at Foodtown, American Legion, or at the numerous downtown events. He was a teacher, coach, neighbor and friend, he will be missed by all that had the privilege to know him. Deepest condolences to Kay and family, John and Stacey Murphy.
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Bernard Peters posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
I remember Coach Shaffer on the blocking sled, reffing shot put and track meets, football games, and in the hallways! He was a was always very nice to me! R I P Coach! You will be sorely missed!
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Nancy Witte lit a candle
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
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Only wonderful thoughts and memories come to mind when thinking of Mr. Shaffer. He will be missed by many.
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Joyce Levenson posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
Alan and I offer our condolences to Gil's family and dear ones. I first met Gil when I was a student in one of his US History I classes, I can still remember where I sat, some very specific history lessons, and some fun times as well. I can still hear his voice. In tumultuous times, he made us feel safe. I know many of my classmates were helped by him. Later, I had the privilege to call him my colleague, and I was also able to share social times with him. He made the transition from my calling him Mr. Shaffer to Gil comfortable for me. I know his family and loved ones - all of us - will miss that laugh and the welcoming warmth he always shared when he saw us. May his memory be for a blessing. ~jkl
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Charlie & Olivia Minervino posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
Greg
So sorry about your dad’s passing.
Gil was one of the good guys. A real man who lived a full life. He leaves behind a legacy of a wonderful family and lots of good works with young people as a coach and mentor.
We enjoyed talking with him the times our families were together. He was always entertaining, fun to be around, and loved to socialize with family and friends.
Gil will not be forgotten. He will be remembered dearly by family and fondly by all those young people he touched.
Again, our condolences. Please pass on our sympathies to Kay and your family.
Stay strong. Gil would want it that way.
Charlie & Olivia
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Bob Cappuccino posted a symbolic gesture
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
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I met Greg and was surprised by his buoyant friendliness and sense of humor. Then I met Gil. And it all made sense. The apple does not fall far from the tree!
There are few words that can fill the void when we lose someone so dear so I will only say that I feel fortunate to have met him and his lovely life partner Kay. RIP Coach Gil.
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Ella and Jim Biunno posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
We are so sorry to hear about Gil's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family.
Sending you our love and deepest condolences during this time of sadness. Love Ella and Jim
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Eleanor Willets posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
Gil Shaffer was adored by his wife Kay , children, grandchildren and relatives. He shared his life with so many and created memories that will be cherished for years to come. He and Kay always made everyone feel welcome in their home. Gil devoted his life to his beautiful wife and family. Gil has exemplified to many of us what it takes to be a great role model for our children. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten. Sincerely, Eleanor, Tom and Michelle
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Joanne Belmonte posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
So sorry to hear about Gil’s passing. Gil was my home room partner at MHS during my first year of teaching. He helped make my first year meaningful and enjoyable. I will miss seeing Gil at our MCREA Luncheons and our Forte Dinners. Rest In Peace, Gil.
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Marybeth and Craig lit a candle
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
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We are so sorry to hear of Gil’s passing and know what a tremendous loss this is for his family. For over 30 years we have had the joy of having Gil’s son Michael as a part of our family, as our brother, and we know that so much of the good and kind person Michael is today is the result of the great example of his beloved dad. We hope that all of the joy-filled memories of so many family gatherings and beach vacations will fill your hearts and make his memory a blessing that sustains all of you and makes you smile.
With love and condolences, Marybeth and Craig
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Phyllis Rehm lit a candle
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
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As I light this candle, I will keep Gil's memory alive!
Sincerely,
Phyllis Rehm
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Phyllis Rehm posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
Gil Shaffer was an" icon " in the Morris School District . When I taught at Frelinghuysen Middle School, Gil was my supervisor for many years before I became Dept. Chair of World Languages at Morristown H.S. He was always so supportive and fair. Gil knew how to listen and he demonstrated this always.
I know that Kate and he were inseparable! His family meant everything to him! I am so sorry for their loss.
Gil will always be in my thoughts and prayers.
My heart is with his family as all mourn his loss.
My sincere condolences.
Phyllis Rehm
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Peg/John Barnicle posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
Peg and I are forever grateful to have been part of Gil’s team at Morris School District. Kay, he helped the Barnicles as a beacon of honest hard work. Thanks for sharing him.
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The family of Gilbert W. Shaffer, Jr. uploaded a photo
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
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Alan Gilbert posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
Please accept my deepest condolences on Gil's passing. It is with great joy that I remember Gil and his commitment to wrestling.
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Michele McCue Shaffer posted a symbolic gesture
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
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Gilman, words cannot describe the void we feel, but we will fill that void with the memories we have shared. Our girls were so blessed to share every holiday, birthday, and celebration with you, and we are so grateful for that. We will never forget our trips together, the Beach week, and all of our family events together. You were an incredible man who impacted so many and left your mark on this world. Thank you for everything and for all of our personal conversations we shared. Thank you for inviting me on your faith journey. But most importantly, thank you for your son, the love of my life. Godspeed Pop and, until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand. Love, Shelly
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Art Barnes posted a condolence
Monday, January 25, 2021
To the Shaffer Family:
I know Gil will be missed by so many of us. As a young football coach at Morristown Prep, I learned so much from him when he joined our staff as an Assistant football coach in 1967. I treasured his guidance and support. Kathy and I so much enjoyed his humor, his enthusiasm for life and his love for his family. He was a great role model for both of us. May he Rest In Peace! Art Barnes
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Sue McCue Goodwin posted a condolence
Monday, January 25, 2021
To Kay and the entire Shaffer Family,
I have many fond memories of Gilman for well over 45 years. I loved his crazy personality, his love to always have a good time, to always welcome you in through the back door for wine or beer. Loved the times I spent way back at LBI, with the entire family. And every Christmas, but 2 in the past 35 plus years. My memories are so great I will treasure them for life. Robby, Patrick, Jack and Andrew have so many as well. We were blessed to be with him.
Love,
Sue McCue Goodwin
16 RIGHTER AVENUE, DENVILLE, NJ 07834
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