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LifeStory

Kade J Schaffer

Devoted father, beloved teacher, talented artist, lover of wildlife

Kade J. Schaffer, 45, formerly Kate Schaffer of Brooklyn, New York, was born in Washington, DC and spent their childhood in the close-knit District suburb of Cheverly, Maryland. They attended the science and technology focused Eleanor Roosevelt High School and earned a BA from the University of Maryland Baltimore County and an MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, combining their love of photography with digital innovation. With an eagerness to explore the incredible avant garde creative scene in New York City, Kade moved to NYC soon after graduating from the Art Institute and began teaching at the School of Visual Arts, where they instructed students up until their death.

A patient mentor and creative coach, Kade enjoyed helping young people through the college experience in a big city, and was adored by so many members of the student body. In addition to teaching, Kade also served as the Director of Operations for the school's Computer Art department and most recently took on a role as Director of Institutional Technology Procurement for the college. Kade loved animals, nature, hiking and camping and spent summers guiding college students through Alaska to help them appreciate the wilderness and understand the present threat and growing impact of climate change.

Kade had a strong network of cherished friends in Brooklyn and was known for their loyalty, quiet wit and giving spirit. Kade is survived by their twin boys, Jasper and Milo and their co-parent Kristin Kimmel, their father Michael J. Schaffer, and a sister Sarah Schaffer (Todd Trego). Kade was predeceased by their mother, Ellen Bond Schaffer. A memorial will be held at Greenwood Cemetery in Brooklyn July 19, two p.m.

Kade requests donations be made to Alaska Sea Life Center (select "wildlife response program" in the drop down menu, then in the comment box note that the gift is being made in Kade's memory) or the Sarcoma Foundation of America (use the comment box there to also note that the gift is being made to honor Kade Schaffer).  


 With Milo and Jasper


In Alaska


Kade J Schaffer
Memorial
  • born

    1974

  • died

    2019

Phyllistine Travis
Kade's light will continue to shine in all who knew them. I am honored to be one who knew Kade. They were a strong and positive presence — heartfelt condolences to Jasper, Milo, Kristin, and the family.
Jane O'Neill
So...I wouldn’t have my life now if it weren’t for Kade, who gave me a job opportunity lead and told me to apply anyway, and covered for me at work so I could run to interview. I met my current partner at that job and we now have 2 kids. I’m so sad we lost touch and that Kade is no longer here. Kade adored K, M and J. Sending you all love and peace.
Chet Pancake
Incredibly sad to hear this news. I was in one of Kade's films they made at UMBC!!! A super fun, thoughtful and sensitive soul. They really gave me hope for my creative practice at the time! Thinking very much of Kade's co-parent and sons - much love and peace to you.
Milo Schaffer
thank u
Jeen Lee
You gave me best memory while I was in school. Sorry I missed you and I miss you.
Jacki Jewell
While I didn’t get to NY often, Kade and Kristin always showed me a good time even if we just sat around the apartment and ordered food. I truly enjoyed every minute with them. My favorite memory of Kade is when they were having a little spat with Kristin. I, of course, giggled being a mere bystander and not a participant. Kade laughed and said, “it’s like looking in the mirror isn’t it?”, which made me laugh even harder. They sure knew how to call me out! Unfortunately, Kristin didn’t find it funny at all, but Kade and I got a kick out of it! Kade, I will truly miss your smile and sense of humor!! ❤️❤️❤️
Kade J Schaffer
Memorial
  • born

    1974

  • died

    2019