Donald Schroeder

Obituary

Donald Dean Schroeder, 78, passed away peacefully on July 16th, 2026, surrounded by family at the VA Medical Center in Minneapolis.

Born on November 15th, 1947, in Sparta, Wisconsin, Don was the son of Harold and Gertrude Schroeder. After graduating from St. Paul Park High School in 1965, he enlisted in the United States Navy, proudly serving his country until 1968, including in Vietnam as an aircraft mechanic. Don went on to build a varied and hardworking career, most recently serving as the well known manager of Furlong’s Liquor in North St. Paul.

In November of 1983, Don married Janet, the love of his life, and together they shared 39 wonderful years. They hosted 17 annual golf tournaments benefiting local charities, traveled often with friends and family, and cherished the company of their Maplewood neighbors—frequently gathering in their basement bar, the Eagle’s Nest Lounge, for happy hour and laughter.

Don was always on the move—working around the house, attending Friday night car shows in North St. Paul, or golfing every Tuesday morning with his brothers and his longtime friend Ron Kothlow. He will be remembered as a devoted family man, a passionate Green Bay Packers fan, and a proud connoisseur of Hamm’s Beer. His humor and unforgettable “Don isms” will be deeply missed.

Don is survived by his stepdaughters Rebecca (Mark) Lenz, Sarah (Jill Dawe) Johnson, and Anna (Rick) Wegwerth; grandchildren Alan, Brandon, Calvin (Crissy) Lenz, Henry Johnson Kwant (Rose Kessler), Ryan (Madelyn Gabrielson), and Rachel Vick; and great grandchildren Kelsea and Carson Lenz, Aiden Romain, Rylee Frederiksen, and Ellia Vick. He is also survived by his siblings Jacquie Schroeder, David (Luann) Schroeder, Dennis (Linda) Schroeder, and Julie Resendez. Don leaves behind a wide circle of relatives and a lifetime of good friends who loved him deeply.

He is preceded in death by his wife Janet, his parents Harold and Gertrude Schroeder, and his grandson Colin Vick.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 12th, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the American Legion in North St. Paul.

Interment will take place at Fort Snelling National Cemetery on Monday, September 14th, at 9:00 a.m. (Please plan to arrive at Assembly Area #2 at least 15 minutes before the time of the service.)

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to North St. Paul Veterans Park or the Wounded Warrior Project.

memorial service

Celebration Of Life

September 12, 2026

American Legion 2678 7th Ave E, North St Paul, MN 55109, USA

Please join the family between 11 and 2 to remember Don and share stories and memories. Lunch will be provided.