Gary Lynn Shaffer, age 74, of Parrish, FL, passed away Wednesday, June 16, 2021, at Manatee Memorial Hospital in Bradenton.

Gary was born August 13, 1947 in Ellerslie, MD a son of the late Duane and Betty Shaffer. After graduating from Frostburg State College, Gary left Ellerslie to work for the City of Baltimore, in its Water Quality program.  Taking part time studies, he also obtained a Masters Degree in Public Administration from the University of Baltimore. While attending a social event, he met his future wife, Rosalie Maggitti, who shared many of his interests. They both found job offers in Florida, Gary with the State of Florida and Rosalie with the US NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service.  They lived in Panama City and Tallahassee in northwest Florida, then in Parrish in southwest Florida.

He and Rosalie traveled a great deal, visiting many parts of the US and Canada, and by cruise ships, to many countries in Europe and the Caribbean.  One of Gary’s major accomplishments was the recent publication by Amazon of his book, “Pride of Our Nation,” featuring his interviews with soldiers who fought for our country in World War II.

He is survived by his wife Rosalie, his sister, Karen Golden, her husband, Clarence, their son, Jason, and many other relatives in Ellerslie and nearby Pennsylvania.

Burial will occur at Sunset Memorial Park, Cumberland.

A memorial service will be held for family and friends at a later date.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.zeiglerfuneralhome.com.