Remembering Bernard Joseph Schrader

Bernie Schrader had a way of making everyone around him feel at home - which makes sense, since home was where he loved to be most. He passed away peacefully on August 24, 2026, at 79 years old, surrounded by the family he cherished above all else.

Born in Indianapolis to Herman and Josephine Schrader, Bernie graduated from Cathedral High School before serving four years in the United States Air Force. Stationed at Travis and Hickam Air Force Bases, he worked as a Recip Engine Mechanic and even found time to play for the PACAF basketball team in Hawaii. After his service, he built a career of more than 30 years with the United States Post Office - one he was proud of to the end, especially the relationships he built with his patrons along the way.

At the center of Bernie's life was Jackie, his wife of over 53 years. He loved listening to her practice guitar with her students and as a liturgical musician at Mass. He was happiest as a homebody - tending his garden, staying active, and enjoying a good home-cooked meal.

When his daughters were students at St. Malachy School, Bernie was right there coaching their teams, serving as Booster Club president, and organizing spaghetti suppers to raise money along the way. His dedication earned him The Monsignor Albert Busald Award (1992), and he kept right on coaching and cheering his daughters through their years of sports at Brownsburg High School.

Outside of family life, Bernie found joy fishing and making sausage with friends at the Yaggers Conservation Club. He was a member of other organizations including the Slovenian National Home, KSKJ and the Knights of Columbus. Those who knew him remember his kindness, his humor, and his readiness to help anyone who needed it. Some evenings you'd find him on the porch with the Beach Boys playing, inside making a Slovenian pastry known as Potica, or hosting family gatherings just to bring everyone together - because for Bernie, nothing beat having the whole family around the dinner table.

He is survived by his wife, Jackie; his daughters, Jessica (Dominick) and Kristen Schrader. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Herman Schrader, Rosemary Riczo, and Thomas Schrader.

A memorial service will be held at Matthews Mortuary, 690 E 56th Street, Brownsburg, IN 46112, on Monday, August 31, 2026 from 4-7 p.m., where family and friends are welcome to gather and celebrate Bernie's life. Mass will be held on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Malachy Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to Disabled American Veterans (DAV) or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Bernie will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the joy of knowing him.