Les was born on July 10, 1945 in Oakland Calif. Born into a career Navy family, Les was raised in Southern California and Oregon, residing there until he joined the Navy in 1962. For the next 27 years, Les served his country including service in Vietnam and later with the Navy’s Inspector General Team travelling the world.
It was during his Navy days that Les met the love of his life, Tessie.
Les retired from the Navy while living in Oak Harbor. He then served as a civilian employee at NAS Whidbey Navy Exchange for several years and also worked for Skagit Casino prior to retiring a second time.
He had a great love for his family and friends, enjoyed bass fishing, NASCAR racing, model building, and had a great affinity for cats. Les took a special interest in C.A.S.T. (Catch A Special Thrill) and provided fishing trip outings for children with special needs. Rose gardening with Tessie and baking special treats for friends were part of his daily life.
Les often joined with friends in local coffee groups to enjoy great discussions of local and national political issues. He was a very proud American.
Les passed away Monday, Feb. 6, 2012, after a brief illness at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle He was preceded in death by his father, Ralph E. Shafer, mother Eva L. Gearhart, and brother Douglas P. Shafer. He is survived by his wife Theresita Shafer, daughter Elsie Nash, and sons Sam Gregorio, Bobby Shafer, Larry Gregorio, Ely Shafer, and Terry Shafer and their families. He is also survived by sisters Mary Tice, Madeline Halter, Linda Ferros, Deborah Briggs, Candace Blevins, Melissa Gearhart, Judy Jones, and brothers Stephen Shafer, Dennis Gearhart and their families, along with many grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Services with Military Honors were held Friday, Feb. 10, 2012 at NAS Whidbey Base Chapel. Honorariums in lieu of flowers may be made to: C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation, 227 SW 41st St., Renton, WA 98057, Attn: Jim Owens, Exec. Director, www.castforkids.org. Family and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences at www.whidbeymemorial.com.
