Gary Robert Schroeder, 79, of Dubuque, died Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Stonehill Communities in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:45 am Thursday, August 6, 2026, at St. Anthony Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Gary will immediately follow the visitation at 11:00 AM Thursday, August 6, 2026, at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Father Steven Ronsoke as the Celebrant. Entombment will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Gary was born on April 5, 1947, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Merlyn and Jean (Harris) Schroeder. On Gary’s 28th birthday in 1975, he had his first date with Barbara Amend. That date launched their love story, and on August 7, 1976, they were married. Barb preceded Gary in death on January 21, 2025.

Over their four-plus decades of marriage, Gary and Barb resided in several Dubuque neighborhoods, the last being Pine Knolls, where Gary provided quiet and steady leadership for 11 years on the homeowner’s association board of directors.

Gary and Barb were long-term faithful members of St. Anthony’s Parish

Gary was a certified, State of Iowa peace officer and devoted 42 years of his professional life serving the City of Dubuque Parks & Recreation Division as a park ranger.

He was a member of the NRA, the Iowa State Police Association, and the Iowa Police Combat League, where he served as past secretary and treasurer. Gary and his longtime friend, Dubuque Police Captain Bill Davis, were the glue that kept the Combat League together for many years. Gary was also recognized multiple times in the Governor’s 20 as a result of his marksmanship.

Gary will always be remembered for his loyalty, friendship, quick wit, love of country music, and sipping on a Manhattan at one of his favorite area supper clubs.

Survivors include his two children, Heather Schroeder of Dubuque and Sgt. 1st Class (Ret.) William (Angie) Schroeder of Live Oak, TX; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife and parents.

The family requests no plants or flowers. Instead, memorials may be directed to a charity of your choice.

Gary’s Family would also like to extend heartfelt thanks to Pat Friedman, Dan and Michelle Amend, Mike Sullivan, the staff at Stonehill Communities, Hospice of Dubuque, and the Dubuque Police Department Honor Guard for all they did for Gary.

Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Crematory is in care of the arrangements.

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Gary’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.