It is with great sadness that we share that Dr. Frederick LeRoy Schaefer, ‘Roy’ passed away on Sunday, October 4th, 2026. Roy will be remembered for his gentle heart, sharp wit, his skillful storytelling abilities, and his deep appreciation for all the medical personnel who worked with him and provided care to him throughout the years. He also leaves behind a legacy of joy for the local families of the hundreds of babies who he delivered during his long medical career. Roy enjoyed hunting and fishing and was an avid supporter and fan of the Green Bay Packers.

Roy was born in Wilmington, Delaware on October 11, 1930, to Frederick LeRoy Schaefer Sr. and Ethel Ione Schulenberg Schaefer.

Roy graduated from Miami University of Ohio in 1952 and Cincinnati School of Medicine in 1956. He served in the Navy as a Lt. Commander from 1957 to 1959. Roy completed his residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Ohio State University in 1963. He practiced medicine in Neenah, Wisconsin until 1987 and in Devil’s Lake, North Dakota until 1996 when he retired and moved back to Kaukauna, Wisconsin.

Roy spent many years volunteering for the American Cancer Society with the “Making the Ride Happen” program that provided rides for seniors and individuals with disabilities who are unable to drive to medical appointments, grocery shopping and social engagements. He took great pride in helping others.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Mary Rose Schaefer; his children, Frederick LeRoy Schaefer III (Annette), James Michael Schaefer, and Katrina Marie Schaefer Christensen (Tom); his stepsons, Scott and Christopher Haefs; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; his sisters, Janice Schaefer Overton and Mary Anita Schaefer; and his sister-in-law, Jenece Driessen.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick LeRoy Sr. and Ethel Schaefer; brothers-in-law, William J. Driessen, James A. Driessen, and Terry Overton; and his parents-in-law, Harry and Joan Muench.

The family would like to acknowledge and thank the incredible staff and caregivers at the Heritage, Theda Care Hospice, Peabody Manor, Theda Care Senior Care Services and Valley VNA who took exceptional care of Roy and Mary throughout their time together and continue to support Mary and the family at this difficult time of loss.

A memorial service for Roy will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Wichmann Funeral Home in Appleton, 537 N Superior Street, Appleton. Friends and family may gather at the funeral home from 9:00am until the service begins. Roy will be laid to rest at Riverside Cemetery, Appleton.