Robert Ellsworth Shafer was born December 4, 1938, in Eloy, Az to his parents George Bani Shafer and Nettie Marie Sparks. He went to be with his Lord and Savior on December 13, 2025, in Kingfisher, Ok. He married the love of his life, Mary Ellen, on July 17, 1971. He gave his life to Jesus on April 14, 1983, and the adventure began.
He was a pastor, evangelist, missionary, and spiritual father. The number of lives touched are innumerable. No one carried the joy of the Lord like Pastor Bob (affectionately known as PBS). From his contagious laugh to the sparkle in his bright blue eyes, you could always feel the love of Jesus when you were in his presence. His faith and trust in Jesus were unwavering and love and grace he showed to others was unmatched.
His children, grandchildren and great grands were the apple of his eye, but he hung the moon for Mary Ellen. Each day he recommitted his love to her and the love they shared was a love to be striving for in any marriage.
He is in heaven worshipping with his parents, his sisters Velma, Ida, Mary Ellen, Reba and his daughter Tammy.
He leaves behind those who will continue his story. His wife of 54 years, Mary Ellen, his son Bob and wife Karin, his daughter Stacey, his daughter Sarah and husband Randy, his daughter Rachel and husband Derek. His grandchildren and their spouses; Joe and wife Christina, Matt, Zach, Nate and wife Whitney, Zeke and wife Jane. Brandi and husband Matt, Vinny and wife Ashley, Luke and wife Elle, Andrea and husband Jeremy, and Alex. Jay, Anna and husband Trent, Robby, Kelly and husband Derrick. Max, Kate, Benjamin and 21 great grandchildren.
A private ceremony will be held for the family on Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at 11:00 am. A livestream link will be provided on Limitless 405 Church’s Facebook page. Services are under the direction of Sanders Funeral Service.
