Dean “Gator” Schroeder

Dean “Gator” Schroeder, age 62, of Renville, MN passed away on Saturday, October 21, 2023 as the result of a semi truck accident, forever changing the lives of those who loved him dearly. A public visitation will be on Saturday, October 28, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Northwood Church in Redwood Falls, followed by a private service with Pastor Tony Vietti officiating. Arrangements are by Dirks-Blem Funeral Service of Olivia.

If it were up to Dean, his obituary would just say ‘Dean died,’ but his family feels that would not do justice to the impact and legacy that he leaves behind. Dean Edwin Schroeder was born on August 24, 1961 to Edwin and Carol (Nordby) Schroeder in Redwood Falls, MN. In 1979, he graduated from Danube High School and furthered his education at the Willmar Vo-Tech School studying agriculture. From a young age his teachers noticed that all he was focused on was farming. Dean was united in marriage to Marjorie Novotny on April 20, 1991 at the First Lutheran Church in Hector. Their marriage was enriched with two children, whom they raised on their farm in rural Renville. He felt blessed that he was able to do what he loved with his family. Dean took the extra time to encourage, teach, and support his wife and children to learn about farming so that all of them could be involved. Currently he had been serving as the chairman of the Renville County Soil and Water Board. Dean and Marj faithfully attended Northwood Church in Redwood Falls. Prior to that, Dean grew up and was active in the Middle Creek United Methodist Church. Dean was a life-time 4-H member and volunteer for many years. He was skilled at photography and woodworking and enjoyed time spent outdoors. Many memories were made fishing with friends and family. Dean had a gift for striking up conversation with people due to his genuine interest in the lives of others. Being a loving supportive husband and father was the pillar of who Dean was. Dean leaves behind a strong legacy of faith, family, and farming.

Dean is survived by his wife, Marj; his children, Rachel of Everly, IA, and Macius of Olivia; his mom, Carol of Redwood Falls; his brother, Dale (and Lisa) of Renville; and his sister, Jolene Bunting of Redwood Falls. Dean was preceded in death by his dad, Edwin; his parents-in-law, Ralph and Marietta Novotny.

Blessed Be His Memory