Timothy Louis Schaefer

Timothy Louis Schaefer passed away unexpectedly on October 1, 2025, at the age of 68. Though his passing came too soon, his family finds comfort in the many memories he leaves behind.

Born to Joseph and Harriet (Fleming) Schaefer on November 8, 1956, Tim grew up in New Rockford, North Dakota, and graduated from New Rockford High School. After several years farming with his family, he pursued a degree in Physics Engineering from North Dakota State University. His education led to a career with Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico.

At LANL, Tim specialized in detonator science, contributing significantly to the understanding of diagnostics, aging, and reliability of explosive materials - work critical to national security. His scientific rigor and leadership helped advance safety and predictability in explosive systems. He only recently retired to northern Minnesota, where he was looking forward to increased time in the woods and on the water.

Tim married Donna Kolstad on May 8, 1976. Though they later divorced in 2011, they shared many years of life and family together.

Outside of work, Tim was a passionate outdoorsman. He found joy in hiking trails, biking, fishing, kayaking quiet waters, and riding his motorcycle. A regular volunteer in his community, he often helped maintain and clear local trails. His two golden retrievers were constant companions and a source of deep companionship.

Tim will be remembered for his “never stop, always find a solution” attitude. He passed down a legacy of perseverance, integrity, and resilience that lives on through his family and those who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Mary Lou Miller and Kathy Schaefer; his brother, Joseph Schaefer; and his step-grandson, Evan Meyer.

He is survived by his children: Patricia (Dan) Herrboldt of Blaine, Minnesota, James Schaefer of Henderson, Nevadaand William Schaefer (Sarah Watson) of Dover, Delaware; his brother, Louis Schaefer of New Rockford, North Dakota; Donna Schaefer of Los Alamos, New Mexico; his sweet granddaughter, Abigail; and many nieces and nephews.

Tim will be remembered not only for his intellect and accomplishments, but for the love he had for his family and the strength with which he faced life. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the memories he left behind.