Ferrel Wilkinson Schafer

Ferrel Wilkinson Schafer, age 71, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025 after a courageous battle with liver cancer. Born on December 26, 1953 in Murray, Utah, he was the beloved son of Arthur and Ida Schafer. 

On March 10, 1977, Ferrel married the love of his life, Sherilene Martin. Together they build a family grounded in faith, love, and a deep commitment to learning and service. 

Ferrel was a lifelong seeker of truth and wisdom. He had a deep appreciation for the writings of James Allen and other profound thinking authors, and he found great joy in studying and pondering gospel principles. He "feasted" daily on messages from Church leaders and conference talks, which strengthened his testimony and guided his life. 

His favorite places to spend time were in the temple and quiet fishing holes--both sacred places where he found peace, reflection, and connection with God. 

Ferrel is survived by his devoted wife, Sheri and their nine children: Ammon, Aaron, Angela Starley, Andrea Foisy, Alesha Keys, Andrew, Aurora Thurman, Amanda Strehle, and Amelia Joslin, along with their spouses and 27 cherished grandchildren. He is also surivived by his loving sisters, Dawnette Chegg and LaRena Schafer. He was proceded in death by his parents and six siblings: Arthur, Roben, Emerson, Georgiana, Celia, and Lowell.