Margaret Schafer

Margaret Schafer, age 87, of Rochester, MN passed away on Friday, October 31, 2025 at Mayo Clinic Hospital, St. Mary's Campus.

Margaret Meyer Schafer was born on November 13, 1937 in Red Wing, MN to parents Vincent and Ada (Simon) Schafer. She was baptized and confirmed through St. Peter Lutheran Church. Margaret graduated with a degree in education from Concordia University in Seward, NE in 1959. Her first call was at King of Kings Lutheran School in Roseville, MN. She served as the first teacher there, teaching grades K-12. The school began with 25 students, and at their 50th reunion there were more than 350 students enrolled. Margaret went on to earn a Masters Plus Degree in education and reading. She did private tutoring in reading and later developed the Ribbit Reading Program.

Margaret had a passion for helping others. Aside from her teaching, she was a long-time member of Trinity Lutheran Church, where she served as a church greeter, and also participated on the Congregational Fund Committee. She loved music and enjoyed playing the organ and piano wherever she served. Later in life, Margaret became very active at the Charter House, where she resided. She acted as a Resident Council Member, Chairman of the Dining Committee, and finally, was a part of the Bell Ringers group, where she played the chimes.

Margaret is survived by her sister, Ruth Schafer of Rochester, MN; nieces and nephews, Peri Anne (Ray) Williams of Goodhue, MN, Todd (Tammy) Schafer of Norwalk, WI, Kimberly (Kyle) Gibbens of Tomah, WI, and Kevin (Carol) Schafer of Lake City, MN; several great nieces and nephews; and special friends, Brooke (Mike) Fink, and their children Emma and Jackson. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, and sister-in-law, John and LaVonne Schafer.

A funeral service will held at 11:00 am on Thursday, November 6, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church (222 6th Ave SW, Rochester, MN 55902), with visitation beginning one hour prior to the service. Burial will be at the St. Peter Lutheran Church Cemetery in Belvidere, MN.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Schafer family. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com