August 5, 1931 – April 14, 2026
Robert Wyatt Shaffer, known to all as Bob, passed away on April 14, 2026, at The Forum at Rancho San Antonio in Cupertino, California. Prior to the move to the Forum the family resided in Los Altos, California for 57 years.
Bob was born on August 5,1931, in Indiana, Pennsylvania, the only child of Thelma Shaffer and Herschel Shaffer.
With the encouragement of a high school teacher Bob applied to Indiana, Pennsylvania State Teacher’s College and graduated with a BA degree. He then served his country. He was stationed at the Springfield Ordnance District in Springfield, Massachusetts, where he was promoted to First Lieutenant before his honorable discharge in January 1955. Following his military service, Bob pursued his education at Stanford University Graduate School of Business, graduating with an MBA in 1957. Bob for twenty -seven years was the Business Administrator for Pathology Laboratories located in Los Gatos, California.
Bob had a curiosity about the world that shaped his life. Early in their marriage, Bob and his wife, Sue, embarked on a three-month journey around the world, igniting a shared passion for travel and adventure that never faded. Over the decades, they explored Pakistan, Tibet, Bhutan, China, Africa and hiked through the mountains of Nepal. Their marriage of 65 years was one of discovery, companionship, and deep devotion.
At home, Bob lived an active and engaged life. He was a hike leader for the Sierra Club, guiding others through the trails he loved. He was a member of a photography club, capturing the beauty he found in the world around him. He also enjoyed his time at Fremont Hills Country Club, where he played tennis and swam regularly.
Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Susanne Sprenkle Shaffer; his son, Thomas Rauby Shaffer from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and his daughter, Kathryn Elizabeth Wilson from Hopkinton, New Hampshire and five grandchildren, Jeremy and Emily Shaffer, Leslie, Mackenzie, and John Wilson.
Bob is described by friends as a gentle man with a big smile. He lived a full and generous life, rich with adventure, friendship, and love. May he rest in the peace and grace that he so freely offered to others.
The family will have a Celebration of Life at the Forum at a later date.
