Philip Frederick Schaefer

Born in Baltimore to Joseph and Carolyn Schaefer, Phil Schaefer was an active member of Martin Luther Lutheran Church in his teens.  It is there that he met the love of his life, Joan Germer at age 15. They were then inseparable  for over 60 years until Joan passing last March. He was a proud alumnus of Baltimore Polytechnic  ’58 and the University of Maryland at College Park ’62.  Shortly after graduation form college, He and Joan were married and purchased a small swimming beach on the Bush River in Harford County. Starting with only a few row boats and apartment rentals, Phil and Joan worked tirelessly to build up the business.  Phil worked full-time  for his uncle selling school supplies in region during the day, then working on the nights and weekends to create what is now Bar Harbor RV Park and Marina. Planning out everyday’s jobs with a list on a yellow legal pad.  All the while, Phil was a loving and devoted father to his two children, Elyse and Craig.

Phil enjoyed history, travel, antiques and sports.  He was a longtime Colts season ticket holder and avid Ravens and Terps fan, who would take meticulous notes on his beloved football teams. Phil and Joan traveled to Europe, South Pacific , Alaska, and the American Southwest , but especially loved trips to St. John USVI with their family. Phil’s primary focus was guiding and helping his family and friends and alway concerned for the welfare of others.  He was amazingly kind and generous.  In addition to sending his children to college, he helped influence and finance many to get an education. Phil earned the nickname “mr. Softy” within the family, due to his kind heart and compassion and willingness to help anyone who was willing to work hard themselves. With a radiant smile, charm and warmth, Phil inspired a positive trajectory in countless people’s lives.

Phil is survived by his sister and her husband Susan and Robert Hargest, his two children Craig and Elyse and husband Paul; grandchildren Carolyn and husband Alex, Haleigh, Mason, Emma, Cooper and Whitley; great-grandchildren Nora and George.  May we all have such a life.