Andrew Michael Schroeder, 43, of Knox, Indiana, passed away peacefully and surrounded by love on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Hospital in Indianapolis.
Andrew was born on October 27, 1979 in Plymouth, Indiana to Michael and DeeAnn (Scarberry) Schroeder. An accomplished laborer and undeniably hard worker, Andrew received two associate’s degrees in construction and construction management from Vincennes University after graduating from Plymouth High School in 1998. He was a proud member of the Laborers’ International Union of North America Local 645, and an equally devoted member of the First United Church of Christ in Plymouth.
Andrew worked as a freelance contractor specializing in concrete and pavement, and previously worked for InfraSource on pipeline transmission and facility projects, and for Rieth-Riley, Walsh & Kelly, and Indiana Earth Inc., all full-service excavation, site development, and asphalt paving companies based in northern Indiana.
Andrew enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating, kayaking, riding his Harley, playing guitar, and working on projects ranging from home improvements to automotive repairs. He also loved working outdoors, tending to his garden and growing vegetables, and he was happiest working alongside his dad in his garage where he learned a variety of mechanical and welding techniques that allowed him to work with his hands.
Among his many passions, Andrew’s greatest accomplishment was being a father to his two sons, Kyan and Jaxon Schroeder. He often expressed his deep pride in their achievements and in those of the mother of his children, Eleesha Schafer.
Andrew was known for his selflessness, fierce independence, incredible sense of humor, and his love of great (and loud) music. A compassionate man, Andrew always stayed true to himself while also thoughtfully caring for and supporting others, including his beloved dog, Zuri, and his cat, Miss Kittles. Notably, he held a special place in his heart for his mom who he never said goodbye to without telling her he loved her first.
Andrew is survived by his parents, Michael and DeeAnn Schroeder of Plymouth; sons, Kyan and Jaxon Schroeder of Plymouth; his brothers, Matthew (Marie) Hendricks and Terry Schroeder of Plymouth; the mother of his children, Eleesha Schafer of Plymouth; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who miss him dearly and remain committed to keeping his memory alive. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Earl and Diana Schroeder and M. Dale and Patricia Scarberry.
Family and friends will be gathering from 11:00 – 1:00 pm Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at First United Church of Christ, 321 North Center Street, Plymouth. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 1:00 pm Wednesday at the church, with Pastor Chuck Krieg officiating. Interment will be at a later date.
Andrew’s final gift to this world was made through the donation of several vital organs prior to his passing. As such, memorial contributions may be made in Andrew’s memory to the Indiana Donor Network Foundation. Please call 317-685-0389 or email
info@INDonorNetwork.org
.
Andrew’s obituary was written by Kate Morgan