Charles Edward Schaefer, a beloved father, son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away at his home in Fort Morgan, Colorado. Born on June 13, 1960, in Sterling, Colorado, to Virgil and Janet Schaefer, Charlie leaves behind cherished memories and a place in the hearts of those who loved him.

Charlie grew up in Yuma, Colorado, graduated from Yuma High School in 1978, and then moved to Denver. He attended the Colorado Real Estate Institution with the class of 1996. His working life took him through photography, journalism, broadcasting, real estate, and skilled trades. Later, as his health declined, he returned to northeastern Colorado and made his home in Fort Morgan, where he could be closer to the family he loved.

 Photography held a special place in his life a way to capture moments that could be treasured long after they had passed. He also worked as a photojournalist for Colorado Country Connection and as a photojournalist and editor for Backstage Pass magazine.

When disability brought Charlie’s working years to a close, he found comfort in the faithful companionship of his beloved service dog, Maggie. She remained by his side, bringing warmth and love to his days.

Charlie found joy in camping, fishing, dancing, and the country music he held so close to his heart. He loved listening to favorite songs and attending concerts. One of those concerts opened a meaningful chapter in his life when, in mid-adulthood, he met and fell in love with Kelly Drake. Together, they welcomed their son, Logan Mathew Schaefer—a cherished part of Charlie’s life and the love he leaves behind.

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil Schaefer and Janet (Stone) Schaefer; his brother, Virgil Schaefer Jr.; his sisters, Deborah Trejo and Brenda Garfio; and his brothers-in-law, Guadalupe Trejo and Eugene Raichart. Their names remain lovingly woven into his family’s story.

Charlie’s memory will be held close by his family and friends. He is survived by his son, Logan Mathew Schaefer, and Logan’s fiancée, Pauline Liu; his sister, Cheryl Raichart of Merino, Colorado; his brother, Stanley Schaefer of Yuma, Colorado; his sister, Laura Mondragon, and her husband, Jesse Mondragon, of Pueblo, Colorado; his brother-in-law, Erasmo Garfio; and numerous nieces and nephews, and his beloved service dog, Maggie.

Charlie will be remembered for his country music, dancing, time outdoors, and, above all, his photography. For his family and friends, the photographs he leaves behind, and the familiar notes of a favorite country song will offer tender reminders of him. His absence will be deeply felt, but the love they carry for him will remain—a lasting part of their lives, held close in memory. 

Services set to take place on November 5th, 2026 at 10:00AM at Rowanoak Mortuary & Crematory, 231 South Sherman Street, Fort Morgan, Colorado 80701.