James Schaefer

James Schaefer,  Husband, Father, Grandfather, Teacher, Farmer, Rancher, and Legislator of Kennebec, S.D., was taken home to heaven May 29, 2018, near his ranch. Visitation will begin at 5:00 pm, Friday, June 1, with prayer services beginning at 6:00 pm, at Zion Lutheran Church, Presho. A baked steak supper will follow. Funeral services will be Saturday, June 2, at 10:00 am, at Zion Lutheran Church, Chamberlain, followed by a roast beef and apple pie dinner. Interment will follow at Kennebec Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to Schaefer Scholarships. Online condolences may be conveyed to the family at isburgfuneralchapels.com
    James championed to make the local community and the great state of South Dakota better and stronger for future generations through his continued efforts. Jim and Gloria forged Schaefer Ranch and Medicine Creek Grazing Association north of Kennebec, S.D..
    He leaves behind a family legacy with daughter, Tonya (Bart) Ness and son, Ryan (April) Schaefer; grandchildren, Brody, Dara, Kalder, and Bridgir Ness and Autumn, Skyler, and Payton Garrison, and a sister, Leola Peterson.
    He was preceded in life’s journey by his amazing wife, Gloria; his parents; brothers, Francis and LeRoy, Jr., and an infant child.