Community members gather in remembrance of Elmer H. Schroer.
The community of Jacksonville mourns the loss of Elmer H. Schroer, a cherished resident who passed away peacefully at 93. Known for his musical talents and dedication to family and service, Elmer leaves behind a legacy that will resonate within the hearts of many. A memorial service will be held on May 31 to honor his remarkable life, celebrating music, love, and community engagement.
On April 9th, the heart of Jacksonville, Florida, beat a little less brightly as the community said goodbye to a beloved resident, Elmer H. Schroer. Elmer, who lived a remarkable 93 years, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family who cherished him deeply.
Born in 1932 to John and Bertha Goos Schroer, Elmer was the youngest of five children and shared an extraordinary bond with his identical twin brother, Delmer. From an early age, the melodious voices of Elmer and Delmer captured hearts, earning them full scholarships to the esteemed *Illinois Wesleyan School of Music*. Their time there laid the foundation for a life steeped in music and performance.
After his musical studies, Elmer bravely served in the *Army during the Korean War*, stationed at Fort Knox for two years. This time marked a significant transition in his life, paving the way for a future dedicated to both the healing arts and music.
Once his service concluded, Elmer sought new horizons and enrolled at the *University of Florida*, where he pursued a degree in pharmacy. He dedicated himself to this field, working for over three decades as a *hospital pharmacist*. Notably, he spent 20 years as the Director of Pharmacy at *St. Luke’s Hospital*. During this time, Elmer also oversaw the pharmacy’s transition to the *Jacksonville branch of the Mayo Clinic*, showcasing his commitment to improving healthcare in his community.
For 38 beautiful years, Elmer shared a life with his wife, Sharon Andrews. Together, they ventured into musical endeavors, enjoying choir performances and thrilling musical theater productions. They even had the joy of singing in stunning cathedrals across Italy, including the iconic *Vatican*. Elmer was not just a talented musician but a devoted family man. He was the kind of father and grandfather who could light up a room with his *gentle spirit* and warm-hearted nature.
Elmer was more than a musical prodigy and a pharmacist; he was also an avid outdoorsman. He embraced activities like *biking*, *hiking*, and *running* with enthusiasm. His passion for physical activity could be seen as he participated in the *15K River Run in Jacksonville* more than 30 times, embodying the spirit of perseverance and community engagement.
He relished moments spent kayaking, playing tennis, and enjoying *disc golf*. Elmer’s beloved Italian Greyhound, Linus, was often his companion on walks, adding yet another layer of charm to his already vibrant life.
Elmer leaves behind a rich legacy. He is survived by his wife Sharon, four children from his first marriage, and two stepdaughters. His family tree expands to include eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward the love and kindness he exemplified throughout his life.
A memorial service is to be held at 11 a.m. on May 31 at *All Saints Episcopal Church* in Jacksonville, where friends and family will come together to celebrate Elmer’s life. Following the service, a reception will be hosted at the *Parish Hall*, allowing everyone to share stories and memories. For those wishing to honor Elmer’s memory, donations can be made to various local organizations, including the *Jacksonville Symphony Chorus* or the *Community Hospice and Palliative Care*, reflecting his deep commitment to giving back to the community that gave him so much.
As Jacksonville bids farewell to Elmer H. Schroer, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with music, love, family, and service. His sweet harmonies will echo in the hearts of many for years to come.
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