Lucas Alan Schafer passed away peacefully in his home on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.
Luke was born the son of Mark and Denice (Burke) Schafer on August 11, 1981, in Grand Forks, North Dakota. He attended school in Grand Forks. Luke was married to his high school sweetheart, Michelle Merrill, on February 25, 2006, in East Grand Forks, Minnesota. Luke’s proudest accomplishment in life was providing for his family, whom he cherished deeply. Together they created a loving and nurturing home, raising their family in the home that he built for them. Luke was an incredibly proud father to his children, Taiylor, Mason, Avery, Bennet, and Haven. He loved having his oldest sons working with him. Luke most enjoyed spending quality time with his loved ones at their lake home during summers, creating beautiful memories that will forever be treasured. Luke had a strong bond with his siblings, Ellie, Jacob and Josh, and they supported each other through life’s ups and downs.
He was the proud owner of Schafer Construction, which he took over from his dad at his retirement in 2013. Luke was the hardest worker and was affectionately called Scooter by many that knew him because he never slowed down.
On December 15 of 2023, Luke was paralyzed as the result of a tragic accident while driving his ATV. Despite his emotional and physical pain, he battled for over 6 months and faced the challenges head on. He remained strong until the very end.
Luke is survived by his loving wife, Michelle and their children, Taiylor, Mason, Avery, Bennet and Haven; his sister Ellie (Brian) Olson, brothers, Jacob Schafer and Josh (Rebecca) Schafer; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Jean (Bob) Jorgenson and father-in-law, Doug Merrill; as well as his brothers-in-law, Nathan (Jenna) Jorgenson and Chad (Kristen) Merrill, and sisters-in-law, Karli Jorgenson and Megan (Andy) Olson, his paternal grandmother, Margaret, as well as his many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. Luke’s legacy will live on through the love and memories he shared with his family and friends. He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Luke was preceded in death by his parents, Mark and Denice Schafer and grandparents.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Sunday, June 30, 2024, at Calvary Lutheran Church, Grand Forks, ND with a prayer service at 6:00 p.m. Visitation will continue from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Monday, July 1, 2024, at Calvary Lutheran Church followed by the memorial service at 2:00 p.m. (Amundson Funeral Home)