Eric Anthony Schaefer, 63, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Bayonne on Thursday, September 26, 2024. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother, and devoted retired police officer, Eric left a lasting impact on the lives of all who knew him.
Eric was the cherished grandson of the late Al and Ana Topolewski, as well as the late Frank and Kitty Schaefer. He was the loving son of the late Terence Schaefer Sr. and the late Frances Schaefer. He is survived by his devoted wife, Donna Schaefer, their children, Leigh Ann and EJ Schaefer, and daughter-in-law Samantha Lavelle Schaefer. His grandchildren—Layla, Eric, and Cali—were a source of immense joy in his life. Eric also leaves behind his brother, Terence Schaefer, and sister-in-law, Tracey Schaefer, along
with his sister, Kimberly Kemple, and brother-in-law, Jack Kemple, and his father-in-law, Paul G. Cancro Jr. He is preceded in death by his sister Lizbeth McCall and his sister Nichole Schaefer and his mother-in-law Rose Marie (nee: Annunziata) Cancro. In addition, Eric's memory will be lovingly carried on by many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who held him dear to their hearts.
Eric's love for family was matched by his passions for fishing, cheering on the Yankees and Giants, and giving back to his community. His service to Bayonne began when he was appointed to the Bayonne Police Department on January 13, 1994. Over 25 years, he served with distinction across the Patrol Division, Investigation Division, Community Oriented Policing Unit, and the Bayonne Municipal Court before retiring on February 1, 2019. After retirement, Eric continued to serve his community as a security guard for Henry Harris School with the Bayonne Board of Education.
A standout athlete, Eric made history as the first player from Hudson Catholic to be named First Team All-State in football and was later inducted into the Hudson Catholic Football Hall of Fame. His athletic talents transcended football; he also completed the NYC Marathon and found joy in coaching youth league teams, passing on his love of sports to younger generations.
Eric was a dedicated family man who cherished his roles as a father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering spirit will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him. Visitation will be held on Tuesday October 1st from 3:00 to 7:00pm at the Migliaccio Funeral Home, 851 Kennedy Blvd, Bayonne. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Wednesday October 2nd at 10:45 am at St. Henry's Church, Bayonne. Family and friends are welcomed to the funeral home on Wednesday beginning at 9:45am, prior to mass. Cremation to follow will be private. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Eric's memory to the: Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY. 10306. donationsupport@t2t.org