Robert (Bob) Andrew Schroeder

Marine Corps

Bob passed away peacefully on July 14, 2022, at home on Lake Holcomb, Wisconsin.

He will be missed for his engaging sense of humor and storytelling, his patriotism and sense of duty to our country, the Marine Corps and our allies. He loved family golf gatherings.

Bob was born in Columbus OH, and after ten years in Marion IN, his family moved to Beloit, WI, to be near grandparents. Graduating from Beloit Memorial High,1973, he played varsity baseball and shared wide receiver duties on the ‘73 undefeated Purple Knights football team, oft-named the best in the state that year.

Bob earned his BA (Poli Sci) and JD/MBA from UW-Madison then joined the Marines attending boot camp at Camp LeJeune. JAG legal posts were Okinawa and Camp Pendleton. USMC Active and Reservist duties sent Bob to Haiti, Gulf Wars I/II, UN Forces Kosovo, Bosnia, Kabul, and the US Embassy Baghdad. His many Pentagon years brought him promotions up to full Colonel. Other positions included private law practice (San Diego and Irvine CA); prosecuting illegal drug operations as Asst US Attorney (Del Rio TX); and WI State Public Defender (Spooner). Bob retired to his beloved Wisconsin on Lake Holcomb where he enjoyed his German shepherds and writing poetry. He organized bird watching and horse-whispering sessions for local Vets. They would meet in person and online to share their stories of camaraderie and healing.

In December 2021 Bob was overjoyed by the birth of his grandson and namesake, Andrew. Pre-deceased by his parents, Marian Lipke Schroeder, Milton WI, and R Walter Schroeder, Capt USN Ret, of Milton and Pensacola FL (MI Milagros); his sister, Laura Robertson; and brother-in-law, Denny Pastor. Survived by his daughter, Katherine Oetken (Austin); grandson, Andrew Oetken; brother Tom Schroeder; sisters, Beth Schraeder and Mona Pastor (Darrell); brother-in-law Fred Robertson; uncle Ed H. Schroeder, USAF Ret (Madison, WI); nine nieces and nephews; and seven great-nieces and great-nephews.

Memorial services planned for Spring 2023.