Richard Dean “Dude” Schaefer was born January 25, 1942 in Cando, ND to Richard and Josephine (Halvorson) Schaefer. He was raised in Egeland and graduated from High School in 1960. On November 14, 1961, Richard joined the United States Air Force. He was sent to England to serve until he was called home to take care of his father that had a stroke.

Richard was united in marriage to Katherine Peterson on April 21, 1967. They had two children: Audrey and Duane. They lived in Cando until moving to Starkweather in 1987, where he was Custodian at the Starkweather School. In 1993 he returned to Cando to live the rest of his life with his loving wife. Richard worked many jobs over his years. His final job was with Lewellan Farms in which he worked 16 years until his retirement at age 78.

Richard enjoyed his horses and many animals, along with fishing with his grandsons and great-grandsons, and hunting with friends Bill and Dave Steele. Dude loved his family with his whole heart. He lived life in a way that made the people around him feel seen and supported. His legacy will live on in the memories we share, the stories we’ll keep telling and the love he gave so generously to those around him. May we honor you by carrying a little of your light where ever we go. We say good-bye to a man who had a way of making life feel lighter with his quick wit and unmistakable humor. He was a member of the Lutheran Church.

Richard is survived by his wife of 59 years, Katherine; daughter, Audrey; son, Duane; six grandsons; one granddaughter and 10 great-grandchildren; sister, Dovelene (Larry) Stahn; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Josephine; brother, Buck; sister-in-law, Luella; sister, Joyce Odegaard; brother-in-law, Cliff Odegaard; nephew, Dale Odegaard; brother-in-law, Frank Machart; mother and father-in-law, Eric and Marjorie Peterson; sister-in-law, Mary Peterson; brother-in-law, Larry Peterson; nephew, DJ Campbell.

Dude passed away at home with his loving family at his side on September 16, 2026. His body was deeded to the University of North Dakota and he requested no funeral. He will have a Graveside Service at a later date. Dude’s family would like to thank everyone who called, texted, sent cards, memorials, visited and brought food.  Memorials may be sent to Dude’s family: P.O. Box 97 Cando, ND 58324.