Obituary
Brian J. Schaff, age 67, of Babcock Ranch, Florida, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2025, in Fort Myers. Born in Hamilton, Ohio, Brian was the beloved son of Jack and Mary Ellen Schaff.
Brian’s life was a tapestry woven with devotion to learning, music, family, and community. He graduated cum laude from Heidelberg University with a double major in Mathematics and Music, later earning his MBA from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. His academic achievements reflected his lifelong love of knowledge and his belief in the power of education.
Professionally, Brian built a distinguished career in Information Technology. He spent most of his career in the property and casualty insurance industry, where his expertise and leadership were widely respected. Toward the end of his career, he also contributed his skills in banking and financial services. As a Certified Project Manager, Brian was admired for his ability to lead complex initiatives, solve problems with clarity, and inspire those around him with his dedication to excellence.
Music was the heartbeat of Brian’s life. He shared his talents generously, singing and playing in Praise Groups at Faith Lutheran Church in Cedarburg, Wisconsin; King of Glory Lutheran Church in Carmel, Indiana; and The Community Church in Babcock Ranch, Florida. A gifted multi-instrumentalist, Brian played piano, violin, mandolin, and bongos. His music brought joy to countless people and was a source of deep personal fulfillment.
Brian loved to explore the world with his wife Judy, family, and friends. He visited 49 states, Europe, the Baltics, Australia, and New Zealand, and was eagerly anticipating a trip to his 50th state, Hawaii, in January. He especially cherished time spent at their condo in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, where he found peace and happiness in the beauty of nature.
At home, Brian’s curiosity and creativity flourished. He delighted in playing with his model trains, reading action-packed novels and historical biographies, pursuing his passion as a numismatist, and gazing at the stars through his love of astronomy. He encouraged his son Ben in math and sciences, taking great pride in supporting him during his college years and sharing his own love of learning. Brian was especially proud of Ben’s academic journey and accomplishments.
Brian treasured his years living in Babcock Ranch, where he built lasting friendships and enjoyed the warmth of the community. He found simple joy in riding his golf cart around town with family, friends, and his dog Lucy, embracing the everyday moments that made life meaningful.
Brian is survived by his wife Judy of 34 years; his son Benjamin and daughter-in-law Viri, and grandchildren Kimberly, Sunny, and Tania, whom he adored. He is also survived by his siblings Kathleen Broadwell (David), Michael, and Jackie Bremer (Tim), many nieces and nephews; and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Mary Ellen, and his sister-in-law, Mary Anne Schaff.
A Celebration of Life will be held in January 2026 in Babcock Ranch, Florida. Memorial contributions may be made in Brian’s name to the Community Church of Babcock Ranch building fund.
Brian will be remembered always for his devotion to education, music, community, and most of all, his family — for his pride in Ben’s accomplishments, his joy in welcoming Viri as his cherished daughter-in-law, and his boundless love for his beloved grandchildren. His legacy is one of love, learning, and harmony, carried forward by all who knew him.
Brian and I met during orchestra and chorus in 7th grade. We became good friends through graduation.
I will always remember his kindness and caring for others.