Gary Edward Schaefer passed away Sunday, March 13, 2021, peacefully at home in Brick, NJ surrounded by his family following a two-year battle with lung cancer.

Gary was born in Jersey City in 1952 and graduated from Lakewood High School in 1970. He served in the US Air Force from 1972-1974 before marrying his beloved wife Sarah in 1978 and settling in Brick Township. Gary was an extremely hard worker, whose career through the years included long stretches at Shop Rite, TruGreen, and Home Depot in West Long Branch.

He loved the New York Giants and New York Yankees, classic rock, and was an avid gamer. He was famous for his dimpled smile, witty sense of humor, and his love for hosting a good party. He was predeceased by his wife of 40 years Sarah, his parents, Harry & Ethel, and his sister Mary Ellen.

Surviving are his son Gregory (daughter-in-law Rachel), his daughter Leah, his brother Richard, his brother Robert (sister-in-law Audrey Estelle), and countless dear friends and relatives.

Visitation was held Saturday, March 19, 2021, at D'Elia Funeral Home, Lakewood NJ. Funeral Service immediately followed, concluding with an interment at Adelphia Cemetery, Adelphia. Gary requested that all who attended the services wear "tailgate casual" attire, either the jersey of their favorite sports team or a concert t-shirt.