David Eugene Schroeder

David E. Schroeder

Obituary

David Eugene Schroeder, 66, of Danville, IL died February 9th, 2026 at 6:18 pm at OSF Sacred Heart Medical Center in Danville, Illinois.

He was born February 26, 1959 in Danville, Illinois to Gene Paul Schroeder and Sally Jo (Barrick) Schroeder.

Surviving is his sister, Sally Barrick (Schroeder) Sanders (Tim) of Danville, IL, twin nephews Samuel and David Sanders of Danville, IL, cousin Billie Barrick of Oakwood, IL, and his aunt Margaret (Taylor) Barrick of Oakwood, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents Gene and Sally Jo (Barrick) Schroeder.

Dave was a graduate of Danville High School, Class of 1977. He later went on to attend Eastern Illinois University and later the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where he earned his bachelor’s in music education, and was a member of the Alpha Xi chapter of the Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia and a proud member of the Marching Illini. David taught in many schools in Vermilion County as well as teaching at the then Danville Lutheran School (now Trinity Lutheran School). He retired from Bismarck-Henning Rossville-Alvin school district, of which he had many great memories of working, after 15 years. Most recently he had worked in Danville District 118 as the piano accompanist for Northridge Middle School choral program.

Dave was not just active in education; his many talents had him involved in a host of different organizations around the Danville area. He was director of the Danville Municipal Band, director of Vermilion Festival Chorus, organist and choir director at Trinity Lutheran Church, organist at Holy Family Catholic Church and Church of the Holy Trinity, played piano at The Possum Trot Supper Club, former DJ at WITY and D102 radio stations, former president of the Vermilion Heritage Foundation, former organist at St. James United Methodist Church, a member of the Danville Symphony Orchestra, and house organist for the Virginia Theater in Champaign. His talents brought joy to many people, and his loss will be felt for many years to come.

Dave enjoyed being with his family, friends and playing music wherever possible. He loved to travel to St. Pete Beach, Florida being his favorite place to relax and enjoy the sunshine with a very filthy dirty vodka martini with blue cheese stuffed olives in hand. He was also very proud of his twin nephews and their accomplishments both musically and professionally.

Funeral services will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, Danville, Illinois Friday February 20th, 2026 at 11:00 am with Pastor Kent Tibben officiating. Visitation will be from 9-11 am at the church. Burial will be in Lutheran Cemetery immediately following services.

Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church. Online condolences: www.rortvedtfuneralservices.com.

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