Glen Cole Shafer

GLEN COLE SHAFER passed away peacefully at home on October 13, 2011. He was born on June 25, 1921 in Parlier, Ca to W.J. and Bertha Shafer.

A true “farm boy,” he was raised and spent all of his adult life on the family farm, except for a four year period in service to his country during World War II. He loved both the outdoors and family, both of which were evidenced throughout his life on the farm, first farming alongside his dad W.J., and later taking over the operation after his dad’s passing.

Glen attended Parlier schools, then Selma High School, and later Reedley Junior College.

He had a love of flying and pursued his pilot’s license, followed by obtaining his commercial license as well.

With the beginning of WWII a decision was made to join the Army Air Force. Because of his flying experience he was advanced without “boot camp” into the Army. Being color blind he was unable to serve as a pilot but continued his love of flying and service to the country in the capacity of flight engineer and instrument specialist in the Pacific Theater of Operations.

Returning to the family farm in 1946 Glen began his long career alongside his dad.

He married the love of his life, Esther Salwasser on September 15, 1946, a loving partnership that endured for 65 years.

The family grew over the years to include four children, Nancy, Kenneth, Jill, and Jack, four grandchildren and four great grandchildren.