Capital Projects Manager William F. “Bill” Shafer was remembered
Wednesday for his playful sense of humor, his love of the aesthetic, his
creative hobbies, and the loyalty with which he was a father and husband.
Shafer, 46, died Friday at home in Saratoga Springs after a two-year battle
with cancer.
In a service at Memorial Chapel, friends and relatives recalled his passion
for jokes and storytelling. His sister, Libby, spoke of how he kept his nurses
laughing. Several friends told stories about his pranks, many of which involved
fireworks that he lit with his trademark cigars. Diane Blake, vice president for
finance, spoke of his adaptability, how at ease he was in settings ranging from
construction sites to board meetings. Many recalled his love of gatherings with
family and friends and his “hoovering,” lying out on the dining room
floor after a generous meal.
Shafer joined the College in 1995 as capital projects manager, overseeing the
construction of the F.W. Olin Center and the renovation of Schaffer Library.
He was a graduate of Stanford University and the graduate school of design at
Harvard University.
Survivors include his wife, Susan; and two daughters, Whitney and Lucy.
Contributions may be made to Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence St., Saratoga
Springs, 12866.