William John Schaefer

William “Bill” John Schaefer was born on July 6, 1939 in Detroit, to Sarah (McAllister) and Walter Schaefer. He attended Wayne State University where he met his wife, Barbara, who he celebrated 60 years of marriage with in June 2022. The couple moved to Truk, modern day Micronesia, in 1963, where Bill taught English and their eldest daughter was born. The family returned to Michigan afterwards and eventually found their way to San Jose, California. Bill earned his Master’s in accountancy from Santa Clara University and worked in the San Francisco Financial District as an accountant for Pacific Bell for over 30 years. He also taught accounting at Golden Gate University.

Bill was an avid card player, veracious reader, and a regular at his local Starbucks. He enjoyed neighborhood walks with his family and dog, Jolly, bible study and Sunday church services. He volunteered with the Second Harvest Food Bank for many years in his retirement. Bill will be remembered for his kindness, quick-wit, and fascinating stories of his life, including when he was stuck on the 26th floor of an elevator during the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Barbara, children, Kristyn (Mark), Stephanie, and Terrance, and grandchildren, Alexander, Elizabeth, and Jason.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.oakhillfuneral.com for the Schaefer family.