Obituary for Clarence Russell “Russ” Shafer: January 12, 1934 to February 19, 2026

Clarence Russell Shafer, lovingly known as “Russ”, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026.  He  was 92. 

Russ was born on January 12,1934, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa the son of Clarence W. and Clara Marie (Terrin) Shafer. 

Russ was preceded in death by the love of his life and wife of 46 years , Esperanza Rodriguez Shafer; his parents, Clarence Wiley, and Clara Marie Shafer; and his sisters Margaret Knapp and Doris Mae Popelka. The devotion he shared with Esperanza was a steady and guiding presence throughout his life.  He is survived by his son John Russell Shafer of Yerington, Nevada; his Daughter Ann Marie O’Bannon and her Husband Steven, of Simi Valley , California ; his Grandchildren Thomas, Rachel, Victoria, Micheal, Cameron, and Jeremiah ;and his Great grandchildren Anjalayna, Kaydan, Raelyn, and Opal Dewn. He is also survived by his special niece Renee Popelka Gundersen and her husband, Rick of Belle Plains , Iowa . His family was his pride and joy, and nothing brought him greater happiness than watching it grow. 

Russ proudly served his country in the United Stated Navy during the Korean War. He carried that same sense of duty and quiet strength into his 34 year career with Blue cross, where he built lasting friendships and earned the respect of his colleagues before retiring.

Russ had a deep love for the outdoors and found peace in simple pleasures – tending his garden, hiking quiet trails, camping , fishing, or working on old cars with his daughter. He was happiest with his hands busy and nature close by. Those who knew him will remember his steady presence, gentle spirit, and the way he showed his love through actions more than words.

A visitation will be held at St Gall’s Catholic Church , 1343 Centerville Lane ,Gardnerville, Nevada on Wednesday, March 18,2026, beginning at 12:00 noon . The Rosary will follow at 12:30 pm, with a funeral Mass at 1:30 pm.  Russ will be laid to rest with military honors on March 19, 2026, at 11:00 am at Northern Nevada Memorial Cemetery , 14 Veterans Way, Fernley , Nevada 89408.  Family and friends are invited to sign his online guest book at www.FRFH.net.  Arrangements are under the direction of Freitas Rupracht Funeral Home, 25 Hwy 208 Yerington, Nevada 89447 (775) 463-2911.

Russ leaves behind a legacy of love , hard work , quiet resilience, and devotion to family. Though will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing he has been joyfully reunited in heaven with his beloved Esperanza , together again after a lifetime of love.