Gerald Schauer

With heavy hearts, we announce Gerald Schauer's unexpected passing on February 9, 2025, in Oklahoma City, OK, at the age of 74. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, Feb. 25, at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Pkwy, Bismarck, where we will share stories, raise a glass in his honor, and celebrate his lasting impact on all of us. 

Burial will follow at 2:00 PM at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan. 

Jerry graduated from Napoleon High School in Napoleon, ND, in 1969 and went on to attend the North Dakota State College of Science in Wahpeton, ND. He proudly served two years in the U.S. Air Force in Plattsburg, NY and in December of 1970, he married Kathleen Jacobson.

Jerry worked at various Ready Mix companies in Minot, Napoleon and Wishek and spent many years as a long-haul trucker, a job he deeply loved. He found freedom on the open road and took pride in his work. His quick wit and endless supply of jokes brought smiles to everyone around him. Whether at family gatherings, offering a helping hand, or sharing a good laugh, Jerry’s love for those around him was evident in every gesture.

In the early days, Jerry enjoyed playing guitar in several rock-n-roll bands, bowling, reading, and shooting pool. In his later years, he enjoyed local bars and music, casinos, iPad games, cards, board games, and, most of all, being with family.

Jerry had a way of repeating jokes, and the more he told them, the funnier they became—like his classic line, ‘Other people’s kids are sure cute.’ He had a special talent for bringing lightness and laughter into every conversation, even during serious moments.

Jerry was a man who truly appreciated the simple pleasures in life—a cold Schmidt beer and a shot glass of Wild Turkey whiskey, especially when surrounded by family and friends. Because of his love for Schmidt beer, he was affectionately known as Schmidty at Wolff's Grill & Bar, with Kathy often by his side as Mrs. Schmidty. As a trucker, he developed a special interest in the Weather Channel, and during his vacations, he would indulge in movies. One of his trademarks was always asking, ‘Is it time to eat?’—a question that would always catch family members off guard because he’d insist, ‘You never told me!’—and of course, the food would always be there. His presence at gatherings will be deeply missed, but his warmth, humor, and generous spirit will live on in all of us.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Lucille and Walter Schauer. He is survived by his loving wife, Kathy Schauer; their children, Michael (Ann) Schauer, Shelly (Jebb) Schiele and Mitch (Dana) Schauer and six grandchildren: Tya and Tucker Schiele, and Sheridan, Jillian, Hayden, and Eve Schauer. Jerry is also survived by three brothers: Daryl (Michelle) Schauer, Roger (Dallas) Schauer, and Lynn (Linda) Schauer; and four sisters: Connie (Randy) Gentzkow, Annette (Paul) Godtland, Susan (Larry) Hill, and Irene (John) Schatz.