Clarence "Bud" W. Shaffer's Obituary
Clarence W. “Bud” Shaffer passed peacefully on October 3, 2025. Bud began his life in Hesperia, Michigan. In his late teens, he and his family moved to Muskegon. Bud graduated from Muskegon High School, and attended Muskegon Community College for a short period of time. Adventure called, however, and Bud answered that call by joining the Navy. He sailed all over the world. Bud could fix things, solve problems, and lead sailors. The Navy recognized Bud’s talents, and ultimately promoted him to Chief Warrant Officer 4, the highest rank in his classification. Bud served for 28 years, and retired from the Navy.
After leaving the Navy, adventure called again, and Bud established a successful floral business in Florida. He owned and ran that business for several years, and then retired.
Bud knew how to do things. He knew how to scuba dive, own and fly planes, build a house, captain a charter boat, and tell stories (most of which were true). Perhaps most importantly to Bud, he knew how to have a good time.
Bud was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd Shaffer and Beatrice Campbell Shaffer, and his brother, Robert Shaffer. He is survived by his sister, Joyce Shaffer Quarto; his brother, Gaylord (Marilyn) Shaffer; and nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Service for Bud will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday, October 25, 2025 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St, Norton Shores, MI 49444. There will be a time for visitation one hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to VFW 2488, 810 6th St. W, Palmetto, FL 34221. Sign the online guestbook at https://www.sytsemafh.com
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