Gary W. Schrader

Gary Schrader, 74, of Berrien Springs, passed away Thursday, October 8, 2020 at home from complications from a fall, surrounded by his loved ones.

Gary was born August 23, 1946 in Muir, Michigan, the son of Harold and Adele Schrader. He graduated from Oak Park Academy in Iowa, and spent three years in college. Gary was a U.S. Army veteran having served as a medic in Korea. He was a painter from Local Union 1118, and retired in 2006.

Gary married Donna Moody on November 21, 1981, and they were happily married for almost 39 years. He was a member of the American Legion Post 85 in Berrien Springs. He was a captain of a charter boat, Moody Blues, as he enjoyed fishing on Lake Michigan and taking friends and others fishing as part of his Blue Waters Charter operation. His first mate was Richard Neidlinger. He was a deer hunter, and he enjoyed nature and being outdoors. He will be remembered for his infectious laugh.

Gary is survived by his wife, Donna; and four sons: Eric (Kristy) Schrader of Jacksonville, Florida; Shawn (Kim) Schrader of Grand Haven, Michigan; Ken (Elissa) Jacob of Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania; and Kevin (Heather) Jacob of Berrien Center; and nine grandchildren: Max, Eli, and Vivian Schrader; Rebekah and Kathryn Schrader; Seth and Bodhi Jacob; and Khloe and Knox Jacob; sister, Gale Schrader of Eau Claire; and his beloved dog, Lola.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Lee Schrader of Wyoming.

There will be a memorial service on the steps of the Franklin Church, at the intersection of Frost and Brush Lake in Berrien Center, on October 25 at 1 p.m., with full military honors. A luncheon will follow the service at the home of Kevin and Heather Jacob on Brush Lake Road in Berrien Center.

Memorials in Gary's name may be made to the American Legion Post 85 Building Fund or Hospice at Home. The Allred Funeral Home in Berrien Springs is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories and messages for the family may be left online at www.allredfuneralhome.com.