Eric Karl Schroeder entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, July 17, 2019, with his loving family at his side at the age of 59. Eric leaves behind his brother, Gregory K. Schroeder; his sister-in-law, Laurie Schroeder; his nieces, Michelle Schroeder and Stephanie Schroeder; his long-time companion, Dody Levis; as well as the Ducote, Simoneaux and Gogarty Families. He was preceded in death by his parents, the late Merrill Joyce Schroeder and the late George Earl Schroeder, and by his brother, the late Stephen K. Schroeder. He also leaves behind many cousins, other relatives, and dear friends. Eric was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, on April 12, 1960, where he later attended Southwood High School, graduating with the class of 1978. In 1979, he joined the United States Army, where he served as an Aircraft Powerplant Repairer, a Utility Helicopter Repairer, and was a member of the United States Army Europe 503rd.Combat Aviation Battalion. He served until 1983, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant, and winning numerous awards, including the Army Service Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, and the Scroll of Appreciation. In 1983, he joined Louisiana Army National Guard Company A, 1st Battalion, 244th Aviation Division, where he was a Utility Helicopter Repair Crew Chief. He was highly decorated for his service and was honored with two Army Commendation Medals, the Army Chief Medal, Army Lapel Button, Army Good Conduct Medal, Army Reserve Components of Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Noncommissioned Officer’s Professional Development Ribbon with Numeral, and the Army Service Ribbon. After 19 years of exemplary service to his country, Eric retired as a Staff Sergeant and worked until his civilian retirement as a Turbine Engine Mechanic. Outside of his work-life and military career, Eric was a proud and boisterous member of the Who Dat Nation. He truly loved football and lived for football season. He was a life-long dog lover and in his spare time, took great joy in the tranquility of reading, and fishing. He was a wonderful brother, son, companion, uncle, and friend, and he will be forever missed by everyone fortunate enough to have known him. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a gathering in Eric’s honor at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home, 701 W. Virtue Street, in Chalmette, Louisiana, on Saturday, July 27, 2019, from 12 p.m. - 1 p.m. A memorial service will begin at 1 p.m. and will be followed by continued fellowship. Eric will be laid to rest alongside his family members at the Linwood Park Cemetery located in Boone, IA, on August 10, 2019. To sign and view the family guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com.