Obituaries
Retired MN Police Officer, 46, Dies By Suicide After PTSD Battle
"Gary fought a hard and courageous battle against PTSD attained in the line of duty," the Zumbrota Police Department said.
ZUMBROTA, MN — A retired Zumbrota police officer died by suicide on Monday, the department announced. Gary Schroeder Jr., age 46, served the city as an officer and firefighter for 18 years before medically retiring in 2020, facing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
"Gary fought a hard and courageous battle against PTSD attained in the line of duty," the department said.
"He will be fondly remembered for his hearty laugh and his deep love for his community. The Officers of the Zumbrota Police Department express our sincerest condolences to the Schroeder family, Gary’s friends and all of those who were blessed by his presence."
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Zumbrota police are encouraging anyone experiencing distress to reach out to the suicide and crisis lifeline by dialing or texting 988 or reaching out online.
A visitation for Schroeder will be held Sunday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Zumbrota. A funeral will be held Monday at 11 a.m. at the same church.
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