Carl R. Schaefer, Appleton, age 70, died Sunday, May 24, 2026, at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center in Appleton. He was born in Appleton on April 29, 1956, to the late Norbert and Joan (Bruex) Schaefer. Carl married Mary Drephal on February 4, 1998.

Carl worked as a driver for White Clover Dairy for many years. He and Mary also farmed for eleven years, raising Fainting Goats that they shipped all over the country. Gordy the Pig was a beloved resident of their farm.

Carl loved to tinker and didn’t quit before it was put together or fixed. He also enjoyed coloring in adult coloring books, tending to his plants, and watching the Green Bay Packers.

Above all, Carl enjoyed spending time with his kids and grandkids. He was a laid-back, easy-going jokester with a great sense of humor.

He had a strong faith in God and dedicated his life to Him.

Carl is survived by his wife of 28 years, Mary; daughter, Jessica Schaefer; stepchildren: Tammy (David) Wenzel, Matthew Robinson, and Scott Robinson; grandchildren: Brooke Wenzel and Zack (fiancée Kristina Wolosek) Wenzel; siblings: Bob (Lynn) Schaefer, Maryann Schaefer, Sue (Kurt) Schumacher, Betty (Bill) Riley, Henry (Diana) Schaefer, Ed (Mina) Schaefer, Mike (Lilia) Schaefer, John (Kerri) Schaefer, and Kathy (Dan) Kuen; sisters-in-law: Jean Lotter and Bonnie (Stosh) Wandke; good friends, Mark and Shelia Bauman; and his best pal, Scooter. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

In addition to his parents, Carl was preceded in death by his stepdaughter, Angela Robinson; and brother-in-law, Bob Lotter.

Visitation will be held June 8, 2026, at O’CONNELL FUNERAL HOME (1776 E. Main Street, Little Chute) from 1:00 p.m. until 2:45 p.m. His funeral will follow at 3:00 p.m. with the Pastor Peter Leschke officiating. Committal Emmanuel Lutheran Cemetery, Seymour.

Carl’s family would like to thank the ThedaCare at Home hospice team for the compassionate care he received.

You are not gone, just out of sight.

Your love remains, a guiding light.

In every heart your memory stays,

Forever near through all our days.