Earl Myron Schaffer
December 18, 2025

EARL MYRON SCHAFFER: A successful businessman and extraordinary husband, father, and grandfather, passed away surrounded by family at the age of 97. Earl was born on March 10, 1928, to Harry and Edith (Abelson) Schaffer. He graduated from Taylor Allderdice High School. Following his freshman year at Penn State, Earl served in the Army Air Forces. Stationed in the Philippines, Earl became one of the first air traffic controllers. Back at Penn State, Earl courted the great love of his life, Bernese (Curson) Schaffer. Earl and Bee (Bernese only to family in Philadelphia) married in February 1951, and Earl joined his father's business. Over the decades that followed, Earl built Schaffer, Inc. into the largest wholesaler of small appliances in the Northeast. Other business interests included a travel agency and sporting good stores.

Earl was a fine athlete who played softball and hand ball well into middle age and golf and bridge in later years, and a fine musician (clarinet and piano). He remained an avid reader throughout his life. For friends and family, he was best known for his quick sense of humor. Earl was making people smile, including hospital staff, until the day before his death.

Earl was devoted to his family, all of whom reciprocated his love fiercely. He was a steadfast friend and a champion for those who needed his help. Anyone seeking his counsel came away wiser. Earl returned to Pittsburgh fulltime in 2024, after 20 years living in Sarasota.

Earl was predeceased by his wife, Bee, and their son Michael. He is survived by his children Eric Schaffer (Michele Gray-Schaffer), Scott Schaffer, and Melissa Schaffer (Don Rifkin), and grandchildren Abby Schaffer, Ethan Schaffer (Marie Hildebrand), Gregory Schaffer, Moses Rifkin, and Ezra Rifkin. Earl also is survived by many friends, including (and far from limited to) Sue Shapira and the residents and staff at Weinberg Terrace.

Services at Rodef Shalom Congregation, 4905 Fifth Avenue (at Morewood), Oakland, on Sunday, December 21, 2025 at 11 AM. Visitation one hour prior to services (10 AM - 11 AM). Interment Beth Shalom Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Bee Schaffer Music Fund at Rodef Shalom Congregation. Gifts may be sent to Rodef Shalom Congregation, 4905 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. www.schugar.com

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