Donald Shaffer, the man who served as the inspiration behind the well-known Radar O’Reilly character from MASH*, has passed away at the age of 92. His life story, woven with a rich tapestry of experiences and dedicated service, left an imprint that ultimately shaped a beloved figure in both literature and television. Shaffer died from natural causes in Ottumwa, Iowa, his lifelong hometown, on March 29, according to his obituary.

Ottumwa, Iowa, a small yet memorable town, provided the setting for one of the most iconic characters in the MASH* universe. Richard Hornberger, who authored the original MASH* novel under the pseudonym Richard Hooker, chose to call Ottumwa the hometown of Corporal Walter “Radar” O’Reilly. Hornberger’s choice was no coincidence; he knew Shaffer personally, and Shaffer’s experiences helped to inspire the character of Radar. The young Shaffer, who was just 19 when he became the basis for Radar, went on to represent an endearing and astute figure in the pages of MASH*, eventually leading to portrayals on both the silver screen and in a long-running television series from 1972 to 1983.

Shaffer’s journey with the United States Army began after his high school graduation when he enlisted in 1948, setting out with the aim of making a career in the Signal Corps. His dedication and eagerness were reflected in his work and spirit, especially when he joined the 171st Army Evacuation Hospital unit. In this role, he served as a company clerk in close quarters with Hornberger, the writer who would later immortalize him through Radar O’Reilly. Reflecting on those days, Shaffer recalled the time they spent together in Pyongyang, North Korea, during the Korean War. In an interview with the Ottumwa Courier in 2018, Shaffer shared memories of his friendship with Hornberger, noting the unique moments they shared amidst the challenges of military life.

Following his time in Korea, Shaffer remained in Asia, where he continued to build both his personal and academic credentials. He resided in Japan for six years, where he attended night school and pursued his higher education, ultimately earning a bachelor’s degree from Sophia University. This achievement was a testament to his dedication, as he balanced both military duties and academic pursuits in a foreign country. Later, he furthered his education with a master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University, setting him apart as an individual with a diverse set of skills and interests.

Shaffer’s teaching career took root in Maryland, where he became a part of the faculty at the Community College of Baltimore County. His time in academia allowed him to share his knowledge and experiences with others, impacting the lives of his students just as he had influenced a larger audience through the character he inspired. The Radar O’Reilly character, made famous on-screen by actor Gary Burghoff, became a staple in popular culture, capturing the spirit of a compassionate yet witty individual amid the harsh realities of war. Burghoff’s portrayal of Radar in the MASH* movie and television series brought the character to life, earning Radar a lasting place in the hearts of viewers around the world.

While Radar was known as a company clerk, Shaffer’s own career took a somewhat different trajectory after his service in the Korean War. Although he initially worked in the medical field, serving five years in that capacity, he later transitioned into a role with even greater responsibilities and secrecy. For the final two decades of his career, Shaffer served in military intelligence, a field that required him to keep his work confidential. Shaffer once mentioned, in another interview with the Ottumwa Courier, that his last assignment was classified as top-secret, a detail he could not elaborate on even decades later.

Shaffer’s passing has left a void for those who knew him and those who grew up watching the character he inspired. A funeral with full military honors is scheduled to be held in his memory at the Eldon Christian Church, a ceremony that will pay tribute to both his personal contributions and his lasting influence on American culture through the MASH* series.

The life of Donald Shaffer illustrates how the everyday experiences of one individual can ripple out to affect millions, reaching audiences beyond what he may have ever imagined. His story was not only shared through books and television but was also quietly told through his accomplishments, his work in education, and his significant role in military intelligence. His legacy, immortalized through Radar O’Reilly, continues to remind us of the dedication, humor, and humanity of those who serve in challenging times.

Shaffer’s remarkable life journey, from his days in the Signal Corps to his time in military intelligence, paints a portrait of a man who was more than just a source of inspiration; he was a dedicated soldier, a scholar, a teacher, and a figure whose memory lives on in a beloved character. May he rest in peace, having left an enduring mark on the world through both his real-life contributions and the fictional character he inspired.