Harriet Marie Schafer

Harriet Marie Schafer, 96, of East Peoria, IL passed away at 5:50 pm on Saturday, April 1, 2017 at Maple Lawn Health Care in Eureka, IL. She was born on the family farm on Easter Sunday, March 27, 1921 in Worth Township, Woodford County, IL to John and Fredericka (Reinmann) Eller. She married Fred Schafer on May 7, 1966 in Peoria, IL. They were married for 31 years prior to Fred's death. Surviving are two nieces Vicki Lee Ballmann of Chicago and Becky Joy (Richard) Simmons of Naples, FL; two grand-nieces Rebecca and Julie; two first cousins Amelia Cotton of Metamora and Kathleen (Paul) Baumann of Goleta, CA; many second cousins; and two step-grandsons Paul and Dennis Schafer. She was preceded in death by brother Victor Eller, step-son Gene Schafer, and step-daughter-in-law Gloria Schafer. Harriet had worked for Caterpillar Tractor Company for twenty-six years, retiring in May, 1966. She enjoyed family get-togethers, especially at holiday times. She will be greatly missed by all! A private family graveside service will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, April 6, 2017 at Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria, IL with Pastor Gary Salm officiating. In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to a charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.