Christ Schafer Obituary

CHRIST SCHAFER, 82, PIONEER RANCHER DIES (Big Spring Herald, May 22, 1940 )

Christ Schafer, aged 82, a pioneer ranchman of Glasscock county, died at the family home, north of Garden City, about midnight on Tuesday, May 21 [1940]. He had been in failing health for three years and for the past several months his condition was critical. Mr. Schafer was born in Germany, but had made his home in Glasscock county for the past 53 years, where he raised a fine family and conducted a successful ranching business. He gained his start by hard work and thrift. He raised Percheron horses in the early days and at times had as many as 500 head of horses on his ranch. When the coming of the automobile put the horse breeders out of business he sold his entire herd at a few dollars around. Like all pioneer West Texans his word was as good as his bond and he always endeavored to deal fairly with his fellow men. Many there are who have been given friendly assistance by Mr. Schafer. He is survived by four sons, and one daughter; John, Bismarck, and Chris Jr., of Garden City, and Benjamin Schafer of Courtney, and Pearl Schafer of Garden City. He is also survived by ten grandchildren and one great grandson. Funeral services were conducted at the graveside in Garden City at 3 o'clock Thursday afternoon by Reverend Theo Graalman, pastor of the Big Spring Lutheran Church. The body was laid to rest beside the grave of his wife who passed away February 19th of this year. Pallbearers were Bert Hillger, George Hillger, Will Currie, Will Hanson, Sam Ratliff, Joe Carter, and Henry Currie.

Submitted by Gene Schafer on April 21, 2002.

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