ROBERT A. SHAFFER

Wasilla resident Robert A. Shaffer, 57, a project manager for Science Applications International Corp. on assignment in Anchorage, died at his home on July 30, 2005, of a heart attack.

A celebration of life will be held at the family's home on Sunday, Sept. 11, 2005.

He was born Jan. 6, 1948 in Abington, Pa., to Dr. and Mrs. Lionel B. Shaffer, and graduated from Upper Dublin in 1966.

He was a member of the Roslyn #211 Boy Scout Troop and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout.

Mr. Shaffer graduated from Penn State University in 1970 with a bachelor of arts degree.

While there, he served on the judiciary council and led the student government, where he was instrumental in policy changes and helped the students and university staff weather the Vietnam War protests.

After serving in the Army, he was employed as a systems analyst and project manager, leading the efforts of many companies in the implementation of automated systems and processes. He had assignments in Kansas, Wisconsin, Illinois, Puerto Rico, Virginia, Ohio, Texas and Alaska.

Mr. Shaffer married Carol Schrader of Ambler, Pa., in 1970 in Framingham, Mass.

While working in Wisconsin, he lived with his wife in the Whitefish Bay area. His assignment in Alaska fulfilled his dream of living in a dramatic wilderness area.

HIs family wrote, "Bob loved the outdoors, woodworking and home remodeling. He also worked with the local Boy Scout troop, providing leadership and training."

He is survived by his wife, Carol; two children, Jodi Bonow and Chris Shaffer; two grandchildren, Michael and Thomas; mother, Nelmah Shaffer; brother, William Shaffer of Arlington, Va., and sister, Nancy Esgrow of Corning, N.Y.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Alaska Sealife Center, P.O. Box 1329, Seward, AK 99664 or to the wild habitat center of the donor's choice.

Arrangements are with Valley Funeral Home & Crematory in Wasilla.