Brandon Shafer, 47, passed away on October 16th, 2026. He was born on April 22nd, 1979, the son of Jeffrey Shafer and the late Luann Shafer.

In addition to his father, he is survived by his beloved wife of 25 years, Raelene and their four children: Riley, Sutton, Ashdon, and Aiden; as well as his step-mother, Beth Shafer; his brothers Aaron Shafer (Amy), and Clinton Shafer (Julie), his father-in-law and mother in-law, Carl and Bev Holsinger, his sister-in-law, Stephanie Mayle (Andrew) and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and friends.

Brandon was a devoted husband and father and his family was the center of his world, and the love he had for them was evident in everything he did. He was a 1997 graduate of Freedom High School and was a proud 2001 graduate of the United States Naval Academy. He began his career serving the United States as a nuclear submarine officer in the U.S. Navy. He later earned a master’s degree in Engineering Management from Old Dominion University and went on to build an accomplished career spanning more than 25 years. Following leadership roles at GE Transportation, he became Regional Vice President of Transit Americas at Wabtec Corporation. Throughout his career, he was respected for his leadership, dedication, and genuine commitment to helping others succeed. Outside of his professional life, he poured his time and heart into coaching youth wrestling and football. He brought the same energy, enthusiasm, and dedication to coaching that he brought to everything he did. He believed sports were about more than winning and losing. They were an opportunity to build character, confidence, and lasting friendships. To the young athletes he coached, he was more than a coach. He was a mentor, a role model, and someone who believed in them, both on and off the field. To his friends, he was simply someone you always looked forward to being around. With an unwaveringly positive outlook on life and a wonderful sense of humor, he was never one to take himself too seriously. He loved a costume, never hesitated to grab the karaoke microphone, and was happiest when bringing people together for a good time. His warmth and enthusiasm were contagious, and he had a way of making everyone feel welcome and included. He showed up for the people in his life, and those fortunate enough to know him were better for it. He lived with love, laughter, and a genuine appreciation for the people around him. His sudden passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of his family, friends, and community. The love he shared, the joy that he brought, and the countless lives that he touched will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

There will be no viewing for Brandon. However, a memorial service will be held on Friday, October 23rd at 11 a.m. at Faith Community United Methodist Church, 341 Jefferson Street, Rochester.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc, 349 Adams Street, Rochester.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Brandon’s name to the U.S. Naval Academy Foundation to support the Naval Academy Fund to benefit of the Brigade of Midshipmen.

You can visit this website to donate: https://www.usna.com/give

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Brandon, please visit the floral store of the William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.