Obituary of Robert J. Shaffer

Robert John Shaffer

September 1, 1973 - July 26, 2025

“I did my best.”

A celebration of life will be held September 6, 2025 at Saint Andrew Presbyterian Church, 140 Gathering Place Lane, Iowa City. Services will begin at 2 p.m. followed by a social gathering at the church for all to share. There will be a private family burial at Oakland Cemetery at a later date.

Robert John Shaffer passed away July 26, 2025 surrounded by family at his home in Bremerton, Washington. He met his wife Michele Leslie in 2015. They enjoyed many adventures and travels together, not letting his 2019 cancer diagnosis stop them from cruising down the Nile or visiting a friend in Sweden. 

Robert was born in Iowa City, the son of Robert and Jean Shaffer. He was a 1991 graduate of City High School and received degrees in History and Journalism from the University of Iowa in 1996. As a field producer for TV news, he traveled to Iraq, Israel, Lebanon and Thailand as well as covering events throughout North America. He loved to share stories and ideas with family and friends. 

In addition to his wife Michele and cat Buddy, he is survived by his parents Robert and Jean, his brother Greg, sister Lisa Serovy (Andy), nephew Zachery Serovy (Taylor), and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Robert often expressed his gratitude for all those who visited, checked in on him, and included him in their prayers. Thank you all for your love and faithful support. RIP Robert John.