Ronald M. Schroeder, age 65, of Alpena, SD, died on November 3, 2009, at Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls.

His funeral will be Saturday at 2:00 p.m., November 7, at Welter Funeral Home in Huron.

Visitation with family present will be from 5-8 p.m. Friday, November 6, at United Parish Church in Alpena with a Prayer Service at 7 p.m.; or Saturday afternoon one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Ronald Mark Schroeder was born on July 13, 1944, in Huron, SD, to W.O. and Maxine (Walters) Schroeder. He graduated from Alpena High School in 1962. Ron attended college at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, graduating with a Civil Engineering degree in 1967. He was honored to be named chairman of M-Day homecoming activities his senior year. Ron was a proud member of Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity in College, and the Society of Civil Engineers.

Ron married Shirley Jurgens on August 16, 1964, in Wessington Springs. He worked for Amoco Oil for 32 years in many different management capacities that resulted in the development and production of major refinery components all over the country. While working for Amoco, Ron and his family lived in Casper, WY, Houston, TX, and Chicago, IL. He retired from the company as a Senior Project Manager. After retiring in April of 1999, Ron and Shirley returned to Alpena, to enjoy the peace of the country and reconnecting with family and old friends.

Ron was a proud member of the Elks in Casper, WY, and NRA. He was an active and involved member of the United Parish Church in Alpena. He and his wife Shirley enjoyed years of camping and traveling throughout much of the USA. Ron loved all sports, hunting, snowmobiling, and singing the occasional tune. Most days he could be found driving around at his own speed throughout Alpena and the surrounding countryside. Every person Ron met up with became a friend to stop and chat with and to share some local news or reminisce with.

Ron was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who placed family and home above all else. He graciously offered help and advice to all around him, and asked little in return. He enjoyed the simple things in life and the beauty and tranquility of nature.

Ron is survived by his wife Shirley; 2 daughters, Rochelle (Ron) Agrigento of Homewood, IL, and Wendy (Todd) Chandler of Steger, IL; and 2 granddaughters, Lauren and Alyssa Agrigento.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents.