Obituary of Bradley James Shafer

Bradley “Brad” J. Shafer, 52, of Dowagiac, passed away on Friday, November 19, 2021, at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo, following a short courageous battle with an illness. He was born on September 21, 1969, in Ontario, Canada, to Daniel and Alice (Cornwell) Shafer. In high school he took great pride in playing saxophone in the band, he continued to use his talent in playing the saxophone in church. On May 16, 1998, he married the love of his life, Susan Springsteen, at the Apostolic Church in Coloma, Michigan. Brad was a kind and gentle person, his heart was equal, if not greater than his stature. He had the ability to make everyone smile, no one could out hug Brad. He was a loyal friend, a good listener, and truly cared for others. Brad was a true example of a wonderful husband, dad, and papa. He loved his family completely; he and Susan still had as many stars in their eyes for each other as they had when they first met. His free time was focused around family events, whether it was fishing, cookouts, vacations, or just sitting around visiting. He was preceded in death by his father. Brad is survived by his wife of twenty-three years, Susan Springsteen of Dowagiac; children, Austin, Nikolas, and Olivia Shafer all of Dowagiac; the joy of his life, granddaughter A-DC; his mother, Alice Shafer of Coloma; siblings, Dan Shafer, Lloyd Shafer, and Rebekah Shafer all of Coloma, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Jerry and Cheryl Springsteen of Dowagiac, his beloved dogs, Mollie and Finn; along with a host of extended family members. Funeral Services will be held at 12:00 Noon on Saturday, November 27, 2021, at the Apostolic Lighthouse Church, 30402 M-62 West in Dowagiac, visitation will begin one hour prior to the service. A private burial will take place at Mission Hills Memorial Garden. Memorial contributions in his memory may be directed to his wife Susan, as she will be planning for their children and grandchild’s future. Condolences, photos, and memories may be left for the family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services, of Niles.