He also ran as the Democratic candidate for state treasurer in 1990 but lost the general election to Republican Bob Seale. He served as Senate majority whip in 1991.

Shaffer is survived by his wife, Sharon, who accompanied him to the Legislature throughout his political career. She often sat next to her husband at his desk in the Senate chambers. They were parents of five children: Thomas, Robin, Diane, James and Cindy.

Shaffer was born Dec. 12, 1932, in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., and received a civil engineering degree from Youngstown College. He was a Marine Corps veteran and retired as director of the North Las Vegas Building Department.

A longtime North Las Vegas Lions Club member and past president of the club, he was named Lion of the Year in 1996.

He also was a life member of the Disabled American War Veterans and former president of the North Las Vegas Luncheon Optimist Club.

Shaffer enjoyed football, hunting and fishing.