Jim Scheffer

James William Scheffer of Columbia, MO, known as Jimmy to his family, passed away on Wednesday, February 1st, 2023, at the age of 35.  Cherished son of Mary Beth Scheffer and William Craig (Blue) Scheffer.  Devoted brother to his three sisters Amy (Brett) Perry, Lauren (Timothy) Burkemper, and Melanie Scheffer.  Beloved grandson of Carole (Ron) Schaefer and Gene (Michelle) Scheffer. Dear nephew of Jerry (Diane) Schierding, Rand (Jody) Dankner, Kelly (Tim Smith) Scheffer, and Brian (Michelle) Scheffer. Loved by his cousins Vivian and Cora Scheffer Smith; Lynn, Rachel, and Benjamin Dankner; and Bruce and Brian Schierding.  James was proceeded in death by his grandparents James and Marilyn Schierding and his dear aunt, Joan Dankner. 

Jimmy grew up in St. Charles MO.  He attended Henderson Elementary, Immanuel Lutheran School, and graduated from St. Charles West High School in 2006.  He attended the University of Missouri - Columbia, studying Music Performance in Saxophone, Jazz Studies, and Political Science.  Jim worked for the last three years at Veterans United Home Loans and at Regions Bank prior to that, both in Columbia.   

Jim had an indelible passion for music, which was obvious from the age of two. He was an accomplished musician, playing numerous instruments, including piano and saxophone.  Always happy, empathetic, and kind to everyone, those traits carried over into his other passions, social justice and politics.   

He had many friends along the way as he became involved in a variety of music groups.  This included the St. Charles West Marching Warriors and Jazz Ensemble, Marching Mizzou, and the University of Missouri Concert Band and Jazz Ensembles.  After college he continued to share his talent with the Immanuel Lutheran Church orchestra, the Collegiate Shag Brass Band, and the Columbia Jazz Orchestra, which he directed and led with much joy and enthusiasm. 

Despite his childhood diagnosis of Type One Diabetes, Jim did not let that deter him from pursuing what he wanted out of life.  We will all miss his contagious laugh and kind heart. 

Memorial Contributions in memory of James Scheffer can be made to: 

* CAMP HICKORY HILL - Diabetes Education and Summer Camps for children with Type One Diabetes. 

PO Box 1942, Columbia, MO 65205     http://camphickoryhill.com/donate-to-camp-hickory-hill 

Donations will sponsor children’s camp fees who are financially unable to attend camp. 

* The “WE ALWAYS SWING” Jazz series - A concert producing and educational organization whose mission is to Present, Promote, Preserve and Celebrate the great art form known as “Jazz”. 

21 North 10th Street, Columbia, MO 65201      https://www.wealwaysswing.org/supportv2/ 

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