August 4, 1943 – October 25, 2025
Michael W. Shaffer, a resident of Reading for 28 years, passed away on October 25, 2025, at the Care One Rehabilitation in Concord. He was 82 years of age. Michael was born in Altoona, Pennsylvania, on August 4, 1943, the son of Russell and Shirley (Mallory) Shaffer.
Michael grew up in Altoona, graduating from Altoona Area High School in 1961, and joined the United States Navy shortly after, where he was honorably discharged after serving on the USS Enterprise during the Vietnam War. After his military service, he worked for Audit Bureau of Circulations as a traveling newspaper auditor for a number of years. After marrying his wife Sandy, he permanently relocated to Reading, MA, where he was retired from UHS after working for a number of years as a Medical Equipment Technician.
He was a member of the Good Samaritan Lodge of Ancient Free & Accepted Masons for 21 years. Always a passionate enjoyer of our natural environment, he visited the Massachusetts Audubon Society, Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, and other favorite birdwatching spots ever. For many years, his canoe traveled with he and then he and Sandy everywhere they traveled. He also loved nature photography, camping, and stargazing.
Michael was the beloved husband of Sandra J. (Bent) Shaffer. Devoted father of Mark Shaffer and his wife Chiara, Matthew Shaffer and his wife Krystle, and the late Michael Shaffer. He also leaves his stepdaughter Julie Gordon and her husband Dave. He is the loving grandfather of Keiryn Shaffer, Ryan Shaffer and Jade V Gordon, and the brother of the late Rick and George Shaffer.
A visitation will be held at the Douglass, Edgerley and Bessom Funeral Home 25 Sanborn St. (corner of Woburn St.) Reading on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, from11am-12pm followed by a Masonic Service at 12Noon. A private burial will be held at Wood End cemetery in Reading.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in Michael’s memory to the Wounded Warrior Project PO Box 758517 Topeka KS 66675 www.woundedwarriorproject.org
For directions and online guest book visit www.douglassfuneralhome.com
