Mr. Reece E. Shaffner, 91, of Mill Creek, IN, died Saturday, Aug. 17, 2013, at his home.
He was born Dec. 15, 1921, in Apperson, Oklahoma, to William Ralph and Floral (Rice) Shaffner.
On June 14, 1947, in South Bend, IN, he married Lois Jean (McNabb) Shaffner, who preceded him in death March 25, 2010.
Reece and Lois moved to LaPorte in 1955, coming from South Bend. They were the founders and former owners of Shaffner Tire in LaPorte. Reece leaves a legacy of independence, innovation and a remarkable work ethic.
He is survived by two daughters, Pam Nickell of LaPorte and Wendi (Jon Barris) Shaffner of Manhattan Beach, CA; son, Ned Shaffner of Tennessee; 12 grandchildren, Eric, Lance and Marc Oliver, Todd and Bethany Birkholz, Brook Stines, Scout Nickell, Paul, Keith and Brian Shaffner, and Max and Lauren Barris; and several great-grandchildren.
Besides his wife, Reece was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Sallie Carbiener, two sisters and one brother.
Cremation will take place. Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to the New Day Foundation, P.O. Box 13, LaPorte, IN 46350; or Michiana Humane Society, 722 Ind. 212, Michigan City, IN 46360.
Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP, as well as at www.haverstockfuneralhome.com.