Edward "Ed" Max Scheffer

Edward Max “Ed” Scheffer, 71 of Paola, passed away in his sleep on May 5, 2025, at his home.

A native of Paola, Ed was born on October 30, 1953, to Bill and Mary Scheffer. Ed attended Holy Trinity in Paola and was a proud 1971 graduate of Paola High School, where he first became known as a standout athlete. “Big Ed” known by his peers had natural talent and record setting accomplishments that earned him an induction into Paola’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2001. After graduation, he went on to Coffeyville Community College on a football scholarship and then majored in automotive studies at Emporia State University.

His first job in 1976, took Ed to Liberal, KS where he led crews in the oil fields. While there, he fulfilled his desire for the “need for speed” by racing alcohol funny cars on weekends and meeting the love of his life, Sheri (Edmunds) Scheffer. “Fast Eddie” and Sheri were married May 2, 1981, and eventually desired a slower pace, which took them to Ed’s hometown in the country where they established Scheffer Hay Co. providing hay bales to many horse stables and businesses in the area.

Ed was a devoted father who found his greatest joy coaching his sons and sharing his love of sports. His guidance went far beyond sports, teaching through example instilling hard work, teamwork and integrity. Ed was also part of the local 4-H, coached summer baseball programs and was a devout follower of the catholic faith.

Aside from attending drag races for fun, fishing, and eating BBQ, Ed’s greatest enjoyments later in life were family gatherings, working on the farm with his son Jason, discussing sports with his son Nick and watching all his grandkids play sports – never missing a game.

Ed is survived by his wife Sheri of 44 years, sister Ann Yackle, sons Jason (Laura) Scheffer and Nick Scheffer, grandchildren Blake and Stella Scheffer, Austin and Aiden Scheffer, two step-grandchildren Sunny and Talon Wright, niece Abby (Travis) Hardwick, nephew Chris Yackle, and great-nephews Will, Jake and Alex Harwick, and Liam Yackle, all of the Paola area.

Ed was a hardworking farmer whose hands built a life rooted in dedication and integrity. Known for his quiet strength and unwavering loyalty, he was the kind of man who valued life and cared deeply for others. His steady presence and kind heart will be remembered by all who knew him.

Services will be held at the St Philip Neri Catholic Church in Osawatomie on Friday, May 16, 2025. Rosary at 4:00pm and visitation 4:30pm-5:30pm with Mass to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Catholic Charities or charity of family's choice.