It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the untimely passing of Dustin “Cody” Schaftel, a beloved son, brother, and friend. Cody, 40, tragically passed away on April 9, 2025. His sudden departure has left his family, friends, and community grappling with grief, as they try to come to terms with the loss of someone who was so full of life, warmth, and kindness.
Born on June 13, 1984, in Reisterstown, Maryland, Cody was known for his generous heart, his infectious smile, and his unwavering support for those he loved. Throughout his life, he brought joy to everyone he encountered, and his presence was a source of comfort, light, and laughter. Cody’s kind-hearted nature was evident in everything he did, from his everyday interactions with others to the ways he dedicated himself to his family, friends, and community.
He was the son of Francine and Louis Schaftel, and he was also lovingly embraced by his stepmother, Beth Kressman. Cody’s brother, Noah Schaftel, was his closest confidant, and the bond they shared was one of deep love and mutual respect. The strength of their family was something Cody always held dear, and it was in the warmth of his family that he found comfort, joy, and inspiration.
Though Cody’s life was tragically cut short, his memory will live on through the love and admiration of those who knew him. The outpouring of support and condolences from his community has been a testament to the positive impact Cody had on the lives of so many people. His family finds solace in knowing how many people loved and cherished him, and this has provided them with some measure of peace during this painful time.
Cody was predeceased by his grandparents, Lorraine and Joseph Jachman, and Myra and Arnold Schaftel. He was also preceded in death by his beloved pets, Abby and Roxy, who had been his constant companions and brought him much comfort and joy. While Cody’s passing leaves a hole in the hearts of those who loved him, the memories of his laughter, his kindness, and the love he so freely gave will continue to live on, carried forward by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Cody’s death has been a source of deep sorrow not only for his immediate family but also for his extended family, friends, and the community that knew him. It is a reminder of how quickly life can change, and how important it is to cherish every moment with the people we love. Those who knew Cody can take solace in the knowledge that he made the world a better place simply by being in it. His warmth and good nature were truly a gift to everyone who encountered him, and his memory will continue to inspire and uplift those left behind.
In the days following his death, family, friends, and neighbors have come together to offer their condolences and share their memories of Cody. Social media has been flooded with heartfelt messages from those who were touched by his kindness, sharing stories of his generosity, his sense of humor, and his love for others. Cody’s ability to make everyone feel special, valued, and appreciated was one of his most defining traits, and the impact he had on others is reflected in the many tributes that have poured in since his passing.
As a community, Cody’s family and friends have come together to honor his life and celebrate the person he was. A funeral service was held on April 11, 2025, at the Arlington Chizuk Amuno Cemetery in Baltimore, Maryland, where family and friends gathered to say their final goodbyes. It was a somber occasion, but it was also a time for everyone who knew Cody to reflect on the joy he brought to their lives and to find comfort in the memories they shared with him.
In keeping with Cody’s legacy of compassion and love, his family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Baltimore Humane Society or NAMI Metropolitan Baltimore in his memory. Cody was an advocate for mental health awareness and had a deep affection for animals, so these organizations were chosen as a way to honor the causes that meant the most to him. Donations made to these organizations in Cody’s name will help continue the work he was passionate about and ensure that his spirit of kindness and compassion lives on.
Cody’s life, though brief, was filled with meaning. He touched the lives of so many people, and his impact will not be forgotten. As his family and friends come together to remember him, they are finding comfort in knowing that Cody’s memory will forever be cherished and that his legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will continue to inspire everyone who knew him.
As one close family friend shared, “Rest in peace, Cody. Your memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew you.” Cody’s passing may have left a void that will never be filled, but his love, his laughter, and the mark he left on this world will never fade. He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.
In this time of grief and mourning, the family of Cody Rinker asks for continued prayers and support as they navigate this difficult journey. May his memory continue to inspire and uplift those who were fortunate enough to know him. Rest in peace, Cody. You will always be remembered and forever loved.
The post Cody Rinker Obituary; Cody Rinker, Beloved Son, Brother, and Friend, Passes Away at 24 first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
