Gary Lee Schroeder

Gary Lee Schroeder, 66, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on December 31, 2013 after valiantly fighting lung cancer. Gary was born July 11, 1947 in Winner, South Dakota to Ralph and Betty (Pederson) Schroeder. Gary enjoyed being the big brother to eight younger siblings and loved the idyllic lifestyle of living in a small town. He often helped his Grandfather Pederson on his farm during summer vacations and weekends. Following high school graduation, Gary attended South Dakota Barber College in Sioux Falls. He was drafted into the military and served in the United States Army with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. Gary was awarded the Purple Heart while serving in Vietnam. After leaving the army, Gary married his high school sweetheart, Judy McKay on July 25, 1970. He graduated with a Business Administration degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. He and his family resided in Omaha, Nebraska from 1970-1985, before moving to California for warmer weather. Gary worked twenty-seven years for the United States Government, most recently as the Agency Program Coordinator for the Purchase Card Program at the Naval Surface Warfare Center - Corona Division. Captain Eric Ver Hage of NSWC described Gary as a “humble, dedicated and loyal public servant”. He was a devoted husband and father whose life centered on his family. Gary was a fan of Nebraska football, thoroughbred horseracing and had a variety of cultural interests. He was an avid reader and history buff who enjoyed sharing stories with family and friends. Even though Gary was viewed as a quiet and reserved man, he relished in catching people off guard with his dry sense of humor and wit. Gary is survived by his wife Judy; daughter Sarah and husband Casey Dillon of Oakland, CA; son Mark and wife Meredith of Los Angeles, CA. Three brothers: Neil (Linda) of Winner, SD; Leo of Sheridan, WY; Curtis of Long Valley, SD. Three sisters: Beverly Parezo (Stephen) of Sioux Falls, SD; Gayle Hamilton (Dennis) of Waukesha, WI.; Diane Neyens (Dennis) of Long Valley, SD. Sister-in-law Pamela Schroeder of Spearfish, SD, and numerous extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Kenneth and James. Services were held in Corona, CA and a memorial service will be held in Winner, SD Spring 2014. Donations may be made in Garys name to City of Hope National Medical Center in Duarte, CA. https://secure.cityofhope.org/donate/Main/CardsForHope.aspx Service Location Not Available Tuesday 1/7, 3:00 pm