Lawrence 'Larry' Schroeder, 96

Larry Schroeder passed away at his home Wednesday, Nov. 20.

He was born in 1923 in Franklin, Minnesota. He grew up experiencing different jobs as a young boy and teen, with the locals. He’d help farmers, then worked at his Dad’s service station. This is where he learned his mechanic skills. He enlisted in the Marines in 1942. He deployed to the South Pacific where eventually he was wounded in action in 1945. Because of his injuries he was honorably discharged from service. Because of his actions over seas, he earned a Bronze Star and Purple Heart.

After his service to our country, he attended the Dunwoody College of Technology in Minneapolis. Larry wanted to see the country before settling down to his new career. He did jobs for folks as he traveled therefore stocking up on many interesting stories. When he settled down, he hired on with Shell Oil Company as a mechanical draftsmen. It was at Shell that he met his wife, Phyllis. Larry and Phyllis raised five children and were married for more than 60 years.

Anyone who knew Larry knew his love for adventure, outdoors, and helping out in his community. He rode motorcycles, fished, and flew glider planes, which were just a few of his activities. He was active with the DAV for many years. He was a member of the Royal of the Moose in Whitefish. He helped on the Whitefish Depot renovation. He later volunteered at the Whitefish Depot museum. For many years he and Phyllis attended the First Presbyterian Church in Whitefish.

Larry is preceded in death by Phyllis, his stepson William Snyder, and his son John Schroeder.

Larry leaves behind stepson Joe Snyder and his wife Marilyn Snyder, daughter Susan Smith and her husband Steve Smith, and daughter Sandra Reynolds and her husband David Reynolds. He also leaves behind his son’s wife, Nancy Schroeder.

Larry was blessed with grandchildren Julie Yuly, Lacy Martin, Christina Vlinder, Samuel Broughton, John Kessler, and Matthew Schroeder. Larry was doubly blessed with great-grandchildren Wyatt Martin, Carter Williams, and Clayton Broughton.

Larry will be sorely missed but we know he’s at peace again with Phyllis.

Austin Funeral and Cremation Services in Whitefish is caring for Larry’s family.