Collin Reilly Federer

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Collin Reilly Federer, who was born on October 15, 1996, and taken from this world suddenly on April 15, 2025.

Collin is survived by his parents, Don and Kerry Shaffer, his siblings, Carla (Scott), Caley (Missy), Logan (Mallory), Molly, Celie (Carson), Maddie, and Isabel, and his grandfather, Donald L. Shaffer. He also had a large extended family, with many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and numerous friends who had become like family.

He is preceded in death by his father, Carl, and his grandparents, Edward and Molly Federer, Joseph and Barbara O’Riordan, and Twila Shaffer. His Grandpa Joe, who was his favorite person, passed away just three months prior, and we find solace in knowing it was a truly beautiful reunion.

Collin’s journey began as Don and Kerry blended their families when he was just three years old. The siblings quickly became the best of friends, forming an unbreakable kinship, where the word “step” held no meaning.

Growing up in the Pickerington area, Collin developed a love for sports on the fields of PASA, where he began playing soccer and baseball at the age of 4. He dedicated 10 years to travel baseball, with his dad coaching him, creating cherished memories during those rides home.

Collin attended Pickerington High School Central, graduating with the Class of 2015. As a freshman, he earned a position as the starting goalie, playing alongside his brother Logan. Over his high school soccer career, he earned four varsity letters and held two school records for his position. He also achieved two varsity letters in baseball.

After high school, Collin accepted an opportunity to play soccer at Muskingum University, where he was later recruited to play lacrosse. His athletic talents were remarkable, showcasing his dedication and skill.

However, after leaving Muskingum, Collin chose to pursue his true passion: music. From a young age, he expressed his creativity by putting pencil to paper, even creating a band with four of his siblings during their childhood. While he loved to draw, he primarily spent his time writing, showcasing his talent as a brilliant poet. Eventually, he began setting his words to music, which became his life’s ambition, leading to the creation of C-Fed. He spent countless hours collaborating with his sister Molly on new tracks, ultimately producing three albums.

Collin will always be remembered for his cutting wit, contagious laugh, and loving spirit. Though he was taken from this world too soon, he will live in our hearts forever.

We will be celebrating Collin's life with a funeral mass at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, 600 Hill Rd. N., Pickerington, Ohio, followed by a reception at a later date.

As we remember him, we reflect on the words of Irving Berlin: “The song is ended, but the melody lingers.”