Kenneth Dean Shaffar

Kenneth Dean Shaffar, a dedicated craftsman, loving husband, and devoted father, passed away on April 18, 2026, at the age of 81. Born on August 16, 1944, Kenneth led a life marked by hard work, creativity, and unwavering commitment to his family and community.

Kenneth was a skilled blacksmith by trade, a craft he cherished deeply. Over time, he transitioned into a long and distinguished career as a welder at Ford Motor Company, where he worked for 35 years until his retirement. Among colleagues, he was affectionately known as "Shag The Welder," a nickname that reflected both his expertise and his amiable personality. His professional journey was preceded by honorable service in the United States Air Force, where he served as an Airplane Mechanic, contributing to the maintenance and safety of military aircraft.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Kenneth was a man of many passions. He was an animal lover and a caring individual who consistently showed up for his children in the best way he knew how. His love extended into his hobbies; he delighted in woodworking, often crafting exquisite wooden eagles as gifts for family and friends. As a blacksmith, he fashioned handmade knives that were treasured tokens of his skill and generosity. A true food connoisseur, Kenneth appreciated fine cuisine and especially enjoyed tinkering with his beloved cars, with a special fondness for Fords. The basement and garage were his sanctuaries, filled with tools where he honed his craft and restored anything that captured his interest. In quieter moments, he favored relaxation in his recliner, embracing leisure time watching his favorite television shows. Known in his younger days for his distinctive cowboy hats and boots, Kenneth carried these symbols of rugged independence throughout his life.

He was a proud father and leaves behind a large and loving family. He is survived by his children, Mike (Molly) Shaffar, Sheridan Shaffar, Susie (Jason) Lewis, Todd Marler, and Karey (Mike) Hennen. His legacy continues through his fourteen grandchildren: Cody (Ashley) Horack, Blake Shaffar, Justine (Kyle) Bruening, Christian (Alex) Lewis, Chandler Lewis, Chloe Lewis, Dalton (Avrie) Scott, Chuckie Lewis, Kevin Marler, Cassie, Melanie (Zac) Behlmann, April Hennen, Ethan Wagman, and Emma Wagman. Kenneth was also a proud great-grandfather to five great-grandchildren: Jace Lewis, Margo Bruening, Natalie Behlmann, Michael Behlmann, and Barrett Wagman. He is remembered fondly by his brother-in-law, Leon Ireton; siblings Gordon (Brenda Kay) Shaffar and Brenda (the late Fred) Follin; and his best friend, Troy-Boy, among many other relatives and friends.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Deborah Shaffar; mother, Juanita B. Shaffar; father, George H. Shaffar; son, Bradley Eugene Marler; and sibling, Margie Ireton.

A graveside service to honor Kenneth’s life will be held on April 28, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, located at 2900 Sheridan Road, St. Louis, Missouri. Family, friends, and all who knew Kenneth are invited to attend and celebrate a life well-lived. If you will be joining the family for the graveside service, please arrive at Sylvan Spring Park, located off of Sheridan Road, just before the cemetery by 10 am.  Please see below a map of the exact location of where to meet at 10 am.  The family invites guests to wear cowboy hats in honor of Kenneth. A luncheon will be held from 1-3 pm at Pantera's Pizza: 22 O Fallon Square, O Fallon, MO 63366. 

Kenneth Dean Shaffar’s legacy is one of craftsmanship, familial devotion, and the quiet strength of a man who found joy in both the forge and the familiar comforts of home. His memory will endure in the hearts of those who loved him and in the handiwork he so lovingly created.