Cris Patrick Shafer

Cris Patrick Shafer, a beloved father, devoted husband, proud grandfather, and esteemed friend, passed away on February 11, 2025, at his residence. Born on July 3, 1953, in Kilgore, Texas, Cris was a lifelong resident of this community he cherished so deeply.

Cris was a dedicated Operations Teams Leader at BP Production Company, where he spent many years contributing to the oil and gas industry. His passion for this field was matched only by his pride in his military service; as a proud U.S. Marine, he served as a Geodetic Surveyor aboard the U.S.S. Harkness, with journeys that took him across Europe, Denmark, South American and the Caribbean. His commitment to both his career and country mirrored his approach to family—wholehearted and unwavering.

Education played a formative role in Cris’s early years. He was a notable member of the Kilgore High School baseball team, which proudly represented their school at the state level in 1971. He then pursued further education at Kilgore College. His pursuits extended beyond academia into hobbies that brought joy to his life, such as fishing, hunting, and scuba diving. He truly embraced what it meant to live fully, always seeking adventure and creating memories with loved ones.

Family was at the heart of Cris's life; he treasured the bonds he cultivated. He is survived by his cherished wife, Catrina Shafer, and their children, Cristy Shafer, Shawn Shafer, Whitney Barnett, Joshua Barnett and bonus children Kelly Sage, Kelli Gregg, and Jim Gregg. Cris’s legacy continues through his beloved grandchildren, including Lindsey (Jerry) Exline, Leslie (Miguel) Bennett, William Bennett, Kaleb Shafer, Alexis (Trevor) Washburn, Aaron (Shawna) Fisher, Xiana Luckey, Eviana Luckey, and Lynnix Barnett, along with great-grandchildren Mailee Jo, Amos, Hudson, and Eli as well as his brothers Johnny Shafer and Aladdin (Susan) Shafer, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He brought joy to many children, earning the affectionate nickname "Pappy" to kids beyond his own family.

As we remember Cris, we reflect on the joyous laughter he brought into every gathering, his love for hosting and entertaining, and the warmth he shared through simple moments—fishing trips, family get-togethers, and playful banter. His personality lit up the lives of those who knew him, and his strong family values shaped not just his family but the community around him.

Cris was preceded in death by his beloved parents, John and Edith Shafer, and his brothers Richard and Roger Shafer, sisters-in-law Gail Shafer and Judy Shafer, and his nephew Scott Shafer. Their memories will be cherished alongside Cris's legacy.

Visitation will be held at Rader Funeral Home in Kilgore on Sunday, February 16, 2025, from 5 PM until 7 PM. A funeral service will take place on Monday, February 17, 2025, at St. Luke's Methodist Church at 2 PM, followed by burial at Danville Cemetery.

In these times of sorrow, let us hold onto the love Cris shared and the cherished memories that will forever remain in our hearts.