Vernon Dale Shaffer, 55 of Baltimore, Maryland and formerly of Waldo died Feb. 18, 2009 in Baltimore.  Vernon was born June 11, 1954 in Russell, Kansas to Charles h. and Carol R. (Zweifel) Shaffer.  He was raised in the Amherst community near Waldo where he attended school until the eighth grade.  From 1968 to 1972 he was a student at Russell High School.  After graduation he joined the U.S. Navy was stationed in Naples, Italy.  He returned to the Waldo and Russell area where he worked for the State of Kansas Highway Department and helped dad on the farm.

In 1994 Vernon took at job in Maryland where he continued living.  He was a caregiver and carpenter, making many friends along the way.

His interest and hobbies included gardening, cooking and helping anyone in need.  He was lovingly known as Butch to many of his friends and family.  .  He will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.  Vernon was a hard worker who gave freely of his heart and time and expected little or nothing in return

Vernon is survived by his mother, Carol Shaffer of Waldo; two brothers, Brent and wife Kathy of McCook, Nebraska and Bruce of rural Waldo, Kansas; two sisters, Teresa Shaffer of Russell, Kansas and Lori and husband Ken Lyle of Natoma, Kansas; and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his father.

Celebration of Vernon’s Life will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, February 28, 2009 at the Luray United Methodist Church.  Cremation has preceded the services and the family will have a private family inurnment service at a later date.  Viewing and visitation will not take place and the register book will be available the day of the memorial service.  Flowers and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell.  Condolences may be sent via email by going to www.pvpmortuary.com.  Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell is in charge of the arrangements.