Stefan Schaefer died on January 28th, 2010 after an eighteen-month struggle with cancer. He was 49. He died peacefully in his sleep knowing he was cared for and loved.

Stefan was born in London, England on September 17th, 1960. Stefan excelled as a young student, winning a coveted scholarship at a prestigious London boys' school, the Upper Latymer.

In 1974 at age 13, Stefan moved with his parents, Horst from Germany, who died in 2001, and Jill from England, and two younger brothers, to Santa Barbara, California, where he lived, attended UCSB, and worked for over twenty years. He lived the remainder of his years in Lompoc, working at the Chumash Casino and Domino's Pizza.

Stefan was an avid musician and drummer, participating in the Santa Barbara music scene of the 80's, amassing a huge record collection in the process.

Stefan will be greatly missed by his mother, Jill Schaefer, his brothers, Martin Schaefer and Peter Schaefer, and his sister-in-law Michelle Schaefer.

The Schaefer family would like to thank Marian Hospice for their compassionate care, and all the wonderful medical professionals who worked so hard to give Stefan as much time as they possibly could.

Thank you to friends and family who have all been so supportive during Stefan's journey. A gathering in his memory will be announced.

We knew one day that you would leave
Us all behind your death to grieve.
You fought so hard and hung on long
Remaining steadfast and so strong
That Mom and bros once dared to hope
That with your illness you would cope.

Alas, dear Stefan, known as Steve,
'Twas not to be, we do believe.
You won the battles but lost the war.
Now ahead of you lies much in store
Of no more endless hours of pain
But comfort and peace all to regain.

Goodbye, Auf wiedersehen,
Until we all meet up again.