Edward Michael Schaeffer Jr. 83, of Burlington, died at 11:10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 25, 2008, in Windsor Estates Health and Rehabilitation Center, Kokomo.

Born Dec. 28, 1924, in Hoopston, Ill., he was the son of Edward Michael Sr. and Florence (Fleming) Schaeffer.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Melba M. (Carter) Schaeffer.

He was a retired truck driver, auctioneer and farmer.

Mr. Schaeffer served in the U.S. Army during World War II, from 1943 to 1946.

He is survived by his companion of 27 years, Bonnie Short; his children, Stephen Schaeffer (wife: Donna) of Burlington, Byron Schaeffer (wife: Anita) of Burlington, Beth Ann Schaeffer of Plymouth, Michael Franklin of Logansport, Kimberly Jackson (husband: Aaron) of Flora, Travis Short (wife: Becca) of Lafayette, and Allison Shirar (husband: Wayne) of Burlington; three sisters, Nancy Bouser, Carol Brown, and Sandy Grant, all of Kokomo; and 11 grandchildren.

There were no public services or visitation.