Mark Albert Schaaf

Mark Albert Schaaf died Wednesday, September 19, 2007 at Community Hospital in McCook, NE. He was 92 years old.

Mark was born on November 22, 1914 at Columbus, NE to Albert Jacob and Rose (Vanderheiden) Schaaf. He graduated from Kearney High School in 1933. He continued his education at Alexian Brothers in Chicago, IL graduating with a Registered Nurse Anesthetist Degree.

Mark entered the US Navy on November 2, 1942. He was honorably discharged on August 7, 1952 serving during World War II and the Korean Conflict. He continued to serve in the Reserves.

Mark met Freda Sarah Hutchings while he was stationed in England. They were married on February 6, 1950 in McCook. To this union four children were born. They lived in McCook until 1967 at which time they moved to Gallup, NM. Mark was employed as a nurse anesthetist for many years. He retired in 1987. After Freda’s death in 1993, Mark returned to McCook one year later.

Mark was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church and Fourth Degree Knight’s of Columbus. His church, family and friends were very important to him and he loved socializing with people. He loved going to his farm and spending time with his many animals and gardening.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Albert and Rose Schaaf; one brother, Myron Schaaf; and two sisters, Angela Budig and Thelma Meyer.

Survivors include his two sons, John Schaaf and wife, Suzanne, of Rio Rancho, NM and Michael Schaaf of Gallup, NM; two daughters, Hendrika and husband, Richard Winn, of Albuquerque, NM and Sarah Schaaf of McCook; two sisters, Rita Woods of Kearney, NE and Mary Forgue of McCook; four grandchildren, Elizabeth (James) Baumgardner, Michelle (Troy) Fulgham, David Schaaf and Angelica (Kevin) Rayl; and nine great-grandchildren.

Memorials were to be given in his name.

Rosary took place Friday, September 21, 2007, at Carpenter Breland Chapel.

Mass of Christian Burial was Saturday, September 22, 2007, 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church with Father Gary Brethour officiating.

A private family inurnment was held Monday at Calvary Cemetery.

Carpenter Breland Funeral Home of McCook was in charge of the arrangements.