Ralph (Shorty) Schroer, 85, of Bradenton, FL passed away on December 11, 2022, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on January 16, 1937, to Arthur and Josephine (Koesters) Schroer in St. Anthony, OH and grew up in St. Henry, OH where he excelled in academics and athletics. After high school, Ralph attended the Police Academy and was an Ohio State Highway Patrolman for 16 years.

He married his wife of 65 years, Jeanette (Huelsman), on February 2, 1957, in St. Henry, OH where they both grew up and fell in love. They enjoyed going dancing, watching sporting events, and raising their five children. In 1976, he moved to Bradenton, FL with his family where he entered the insurance business and became a partner with Moore, Fowinkle, and Schroer Insurance until his retirement in 2000. Ralph was also very involved in civic and volunteer organizations including the Knights of Columbus and Manatee County Safety Council and actively practiced his Catholic faith. In his later years, he enjoyed traveling, bowling, and being a well-loved dad, grandpa, and great grandpa.

He is survived by his wife, Jeanette; two sons Dan (Toni) Schroer and Mark (Martha) Schroer and three daughters Nancy (Frank) Welsh, Lora (Daniel) Rees, and Sharon (Brad) Scarbrough; 11 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren, brother Richard (Jean) Schroer and sister Mary (Larry) Brunswick.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents and his brother Paul Schroer.

A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, January 14, 2023, at 10:00 am at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be given to Tidewell Hospice.