Obituary of David L. Schaeffer

Canandaigua, NY – David L. Schaeffer, 70, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2025, surrounded by his son and daughter. Born on March 29, 1954, in Canandaigua to Justin T. Schaeffer and Hazel H. Schaeffer, David lived a full life marked by his devotion to his family and close friends, love of convertibles, traveling, hard work, and a generous heart. David grew up in Shortsville, NY, with his parents, brother, and two sisters, later moving to Canandaigua where his parents owned and operated The Rotary Station. He developed a tenacious love for fast cars; especially his candy apple red 1967 SS Chevelle, and a strong work ethic, both instilled by his parents. David dedicated over 50 years to his craft as an owner/operator and later a chef at numerous local establishments, including Amigos Mexican Restaurant, Schaeffer’s Ice Cream Shoppe, The Ale House, Mary Mac’s Fish Shanty, a local record store, and The Legion Catering. Earlier in life, he worked as a Teamster delivering beer for Genesee Brewery, and in his later years, he found joy in working as a chef at Wegmans, Schooner’s Restaurant, and Murphy’s Law. A 1972 graduate of Canandaigua Academy, he also attended the Community College of the Finger Lakes. Renowned for cooking the town’s best fish fry, David loved spending time near the water—especially in Ocean City, MD, and Sarasota, FL—where he enjoyed eating Blue Crab and Grouper, testing his luck, and cherishing moments with his children and granddaughters. Known by many, he never hesitated to lend a helping hand. David is survived by his son, David L. Schaeffer II (Kristen); his daughter, Brooke D’Amico (Jeffrey); his granddaughters, Liliana D’Amico and Isabella D’Amico; his sisters, Sharon Reid (Francis) and Karen Ham; his sister-in-law, Virginia Schaeffer; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, his brother, J. Thomas Schaeffer, and his grandson, Shawn Spoon. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Fuller Funeral Home, 190 Buffalo St., Canandaigua, NY 14424, followed by the burial at Woodlawn Cemetery. A celebration of life will take place after the burial and all are welcome. Donations in David's name may be made to The Wilmot Cancer Center, Strong Memorial Hospital, 90 Crittenden Blvd. Rochester, NY 14642. Wilmot provided him with life-sustaining blood during his final year. David will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his love of life and unwavering determination. As he often told those close to him, ‘Smile and God bless.’ To share a memory or express condolences online, please visit www.fullerfh.com.