Duane Schroeder

Duane Schroeder age 69, of New Castle died July 29, 2023, at University Hospital Indianapolis after a sudden aggressive illness.

Born June 5, 1954, in Richmond Indiana to Melvin and Doris Schroeder, Duane lived his entire life in Indiana and graduated from Richmond High School, class of 1972. He graduated from Ball State University with a degree in Actuarial Science. He worked in the insurance industry for 43 years, retiring in 2020 after serving most recently as Executive Vice President of the Indiana Compensation Rating Bureau. Previous employers were American States Insurance and The Hartford Insurance Company. He was admired and respected throughout Indiana as the premier expert on Workers Compensation insurance. His duties required explanation of complex topics which he did with exceptional grace, ease, and professionalism.

Duane had many interests. His favorites were woodworking, travel, hiking, and gardening. He loved the planning process of every project, every vacation, and each new gardening season. He recently completed his biggest art project, a one-of-a-kind treehouse filled with dozens of handcrafted intarsial wildlife specimens. Duane and Susan enjoyed hosting family and friends-including all his extended family from Richmond-at their 20-acre property for holidays and gatherings. He enjoyed traveling and hiking. Early travels included family vacations that created amazing lifetime memories for all. As a nature lover, Duane discovered a love of hiking. Duane and his wife logged many miles in mountains, woodlands, and deserts in National Parks from coast to coast. The island of St. Lucia was one of his favorite destinations as snorkeling became another favorite way to enjoy nature. His flower and vegetable gardens were meticulously maintained and provided him much joy and a bounty that was carefully preserved by his wife for winter sustenance.

Duane was a kind, gentle soul with a deep love of his wife, children, grandchildren, and sisters. He was smart and clever and loved a good dad joke. He cared for all people of all backgrounds and believed that everybody was a treasure and should be welcomed and loved for their unique abilities and contributions.

Survivors include his wife, Susan of 23 years; children, Kyle (Laura) Schroeder, Jenny (Alec) Tod, Stacey (Taylor) Will and Brad Smith; grandchildren, Lydia, Carly, Roman, Elliot, Bailey, Lucy, Jack and soon Harlow; Sisters, Gwendolyn Schroeder, Marsha (Art) Clark.

He was proceeded in death by his parents Melvin and Doris Schroeder.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday August 3, 2023 at 5:00 PM at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service, 3406 S. Memorial Dr. New Castle, IN 47362. Visitation will be from 3:00 PM until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be given to the Red-tail Land Conservancy, 125 E. Charles St. Ste. 200, Muncie, IN 47305 www.fortheland.org .

You may share a memory or a condolence for Duane at www.hinsey-brown.com .