Donna Schroeder

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of LaDonna May Schroeder on May 21, 2025 at the age of 82. Born in St. Peter, Minnesota to Fred and Ione (Schumann) Manteufel, Donna’s early life was shaped by resilience after the loss of her parents at a young age. She was lovingly raised by her aunt and uncle, Margaret and Ed Roberts, who instilled in her the values of compassion and dedication.

Donna graduated from Mankato High School in 1960 and continued her education at vo-tech, earning a nursing degree in 1973. Her career in nursing at ISJ Hospital spanned an impressive 42 years, reflecting her commitment to caring for others. She started as a nurse’s aide and became an LPN, eventually serving as the supervisor of central supply.

On March 11, 1961, Donna was united in marriage to Arnold Schroeder, whom she met through a dear friend. Their enduring partnership blossomed into a loving family, centered around their grandchildren and a deep appreciation for life’s simple joys.

Donna was a devoted member of St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, where she found community and connection over the years. Her adventurous spirit thrived in her love for traveling, with cherished trips to New Zealand and Alaska and many family trips to Cutty’s Resort in Iowa. A true lover of life, she enjoyed camping, biking, swimming, bird and eagle watching, and making many joyful memories at Minneopa State Park as she observed the buffalo.

Beyond her explorations, Donna was known for her fondness of games and puzzles. Family often gathered around her puzzle table and contributed to her ongoing jigsaw puzzle. She shared countless laughter-filled moments with neighbors and friends, often enjoying casino trips and horse races, or walking around the mall, while always on the lookout for a good bargain.

Donna is survived by her husband, Arnold Schroeder of Mankato; daughter, Natalie (Andy) Sieberg of Carver; son, Chris (Mary) Schroeder of Mankato; grandchildren, Jamie (Charlie) Keis of Bloomington, Kelly (Jacob) Stoffels of Brooklyn Center, Jake (fiancée Tianna Osborne) Schroeder of Mankato, Noah Schroeder of Mankato, and Anna Schroeder of Mankato; great-grandchildren, Simon, Rosemary, Josephine, and Jude Keis; and siblings, Andrea Roberts and Loren Roberts.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents; auntie mom and uncle, Margaret and Ed Roberts; grandchildren, Ben and Hailey Schroeder; sister, Joyce (Herb) Dobbs; and brother, Eddie Roberts.

Visitation will be held from 5-7pm, Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at Mankato Mortuary (1001 N. Riverfront Drive, Mankato). Memorial service will be 11am, Thursday, May 29, 2025 at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church (304 Monroe Avenue, North Mankato) with visitation one hour prior. Private family graveside service will be held at a later date at Minneopa Cemetery.

Memorials are preferred to St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, North Mankato.

Please share a memory of Donna with her family, view her video tribute, and watch her service livestreamed at www.mankatomortuary.com.

The live stream link below is a complimentary service provided by Mankato Mortuary.
Unforeseen technical, internet, facility, and/or acoustical circumstances may produce a diminished end product. Please note, if the live stream does not appear, we are attempting to record and publish the service for later viewing.