Larry S. Schroeder

Larry Stanley Schroeder, 77, of Galesburg, Illinois, passed away, surrounded by family, Saturday, February 1, 2025 at OSF St. Mary Medical Center, Galesburg, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication to education.

Born on November 7, 1947 in Burlington, Iowa, Larry was the son of Melva (Schwartz) and Fred Schroeder.

Larry was a proud veteran of the United Sates Army, service in the Vietnam War. Following his service, he pursued higher education, earning his Master’s degree from Western Illinois University. His passion for learning led him to a lifelong career in teaching, beginning at Dixon Grade School and culminating in 25 years as a beloved mathematics professor at Carl Sandburg College from 1975 until his retirement.

On March 6, 1971, Larry married the love of his life, Mary Theresa Sullivan, in the Bronx, New York. Together they shared 53 years of unwavering partnership. They built a beautiful family, raising four children: Amy Gugliotta, Thomas Schroeder, Bridget (Scott) Good, and Kevin (Vicky) Schroeder. His love extended to his nine grandchildren-Megan, Anna, Sophia, and Andrew Gugliotta; Liam, Kennedy, Kian, and Owen Good; and Wyatt Schroeder; as well as his great grandson, Maverick Daniels. He was also deeply loved by his brother, Melvin (Andy) Schroeder; and his nieces and nephews. Larry was preceded in death by his parents; a brother and sister-in-law, Wil (Jen) Schroeder; and one grandson, J.

Larry had an innate ability to teach not just in the classroom but in every aspect of life. He coached Little League, youth basketball, soccer, and later took great joy in coaching his grandchildren. He loved technology, especially the calculator, which led him to computer programming, developing educational software and contributing to mathematics textbooks. He found joy in gardening, lawn care, and was always eager to help others, whether in times of need or simply to lend a listening ear. He was an avid follower of the NBA, especially the Chicago Bulls.

In his later years, Larry cherished traveling, including trips to Europe with his wife and son, Thomas. Despite retiring at 55, he remained active and present for his family, always ready to support, guide, and love unconditionally.

Larry’s life was one of quiet strength, dedication, and service. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched as a teacher, mentor, coach, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend.

Visitation will be 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, February 6, 2025 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Private family burial with military honors will be at Rock Island National Cemetery, Rock Island, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bukoba Friends Foundation, in care of Father Deus-Dedit Byabato, 3333 N. Seminary St., Galesburg, IL 61401.