Ricky Lee Shafer

Ricky Lee Shafer, 58, of Phoenix, Arizona passed away on Saturday, July 4th, 2020 due to heart complications. He was born to Samuel and Janice Shafer on February 10th, 1962 at an army base in Germany. The family moved to Arizona before his second birthday and has resided there ever since. He is survived by his mother Jan Shafer and his father Sam Shafer; his sisters Lynda Brunner, Laura Valencia, Jami Buzzard, and Juli Hostetter; his brother, Christopher Silk; his three beloved children Tiffany Shafer, Karlee Marie Shafer, and Ricky James Shafer; his 3 beautiful grandchildren, Shanda Melton, Logan Melton, and Bentley Anderson; 15 loving nieces and nephews, and 13 grand nieces and nephews; his step sisters, Cathy Olivia, Karyn Oliver, and Kim Thompson; his best friend, Ramon Garcia. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Norris and Madge Shafer, James and Esther Cross; stepfather, Robert Silk; stepsister Christine Ostwinkle. Rick attended elementary school at Holiday Park School, middle school at Desert Sands, and high school at Maryvale. During his youth he was recognized for his swimming accomplishments and skills on the soccer and football field. Ricky was always happy when he got to see his adult kids. He told them to be smart and stay safe, he was so proud of them! Ricky was a hard worker, and even the past few years when health issues made it hard for him to even walk, he worked hard and helped so many people make upgrades and renovations to their homes and properties during the pandemic. He had such a big heart, he would give you his last 20.00 if he thought you needed it. He was known to pop in and surprise his mom with flowers and other little gifts randomly. He will be remembered by many for his stories. Ricky told the best stories that kept everyone laughing for days…his stories were so good people will be laughing and enjoying them for years to come whenever they are retold. He will be missed by many but, none more than the apple of his eye, little Ricky and his side kick Lori.