5, 4, 3, 2, 1… Houston, we have liftoff. David Harold Schroen has successfully returned to the Lord’s kingdom on February 28, 2025. He was 83.
While David was best known for being a happy, thoughtful, loving brother, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, little known is that he was a member of the Apollo Space Program team. After graduating from the University of Michigan with a degree in Aerospace Engineering and earning a Master’s in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Southern California, David spent his early career helping America enter and win the race to the moon.
After the NASA program was retired, David returned to his home state of Michigan to spend the remainder of his brilliant engineering career with the Ford Motor Company. He was part of the team that developed the Ford Explorer years before the vehicle went into production in February of 1990. This revolutionary vehicle set the wheels in motion for a vehicle type dominance that continues more than 30 years later.
While his professional achievements were literally “out of this world,” Dave was best known for being a brother, husband, dad, and grandpa. He was the firstborn of Robert and Arlene Schroen of Chelsea, MI in February of 1942. Dave had three siblings: Duane, Sue, and Carol.
He married Myrna Kay Palmer in 1964 and raised three children: Jeff, Mark, and Tracy. Dave and Myrna’s marriage was considered by all to be an absolute rock. They loved their children and helped create a true family foundation. Their home was a refuge and a residence to celebrate life for all.
In 1996, Myrna started her battle with cancer, and with Dave by her side, she returned to the Lord’s kingdom in 1999. By the Lord's grace—and most likely some guidance from Myrna in heaven—Dave was able to meet Marie and once again spend another 25 years as a loving husband and stepfather.
Dave’s nature was optimistic and jovial. Every day, he proved the narrative false that nice guys finish last. His laugh will always be a part of the people who knew and loved him.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor his memory by going out of your way to make someone’s day. Hold your tongue and say something nice or kind when anger sets in. Play a round of golf—and regardless of your score, consider the day precious.
A Celebration of Life for David will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, 11:00 a.m., at St. Paul United Church of Christ, 14600 Old US-12, Chelsea, MI 48118. A luncheon will immediately follow.
