Gary Joseph Schaaf, 67, of Perryville, Missouri passed away Monday, August 19, 2024 at his residence.
He was born October 1, 1956 in Perryville, MO to Alvin W. “Mousie” and Naomi (Tucker) Schaaf.
Gary and Tamara Geile were married July 10, 1982 in Perryville, MO.
He was a member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Perryville.
He served twelve years in the Army National Guard.
Gary served in law enforcement for over forty years. He was a deputy at the Perry County Sheriff’s Department for four years and then served as Chief of Police for the Perryville Police Department for six years and then went on to serve as the Perry County Sheriff for thirty years. He was a member of the American Legion Post 133, where served on the honor guard, president of the National Sheriff Association and the SEMO Drug Task Force. He was also a licensed scuba diver for search and rescue. Gary started the equine search and rescue team.
Gary was a gun advocate and history buff. He loved spending time outdoors, tinkering with things, fishing, grilling, gardening and astronomy using his own telescope. Gary especially loved spending time with his family.
Survivors include two sons, Brian Schaaf of Perryville, Aaron (Catleya) Schaaf of Cape Girardeau; daughter, Amanda Geile of Perryville; three brothers, Michael (Alescha Caldwell) Schaaf of Savannah, IL, Danny Schaaf of Perryville, MO, Kenny (Gina) Schaaf of Seneca, SC; sister, Gail (Larry) Duvall; grandchild, Serena Schaaf.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Dennis Wayne Schaaf; sister, Sharon K. Donley.
Visitation will be from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Friday, August 30, 2024 at Ford & Young Funeral Home in Perryville and will continue from 8:00 am to 9:30 am on Saturday, August 31, 2024 at the funeral home.
Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 am Saturday, August 31, 2024 at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Perryville with Rev. Fred Wandera C.M. officiating.
Entombment will be in the Mary Queen of all Saints Mausoleum at Mount Hope Cemetery in Perryville.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be given to for family use for a charity of their choice.
Online condolences may be made at www.fordandyoungfuneralhome.com.
Ford & Young Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.