Death Claims Donnie Schroer
The star player on Hayward High's 1971 championship basketball team has passed
Yesterday my friend Max texted me an item he found while searching the Internet using the key words “Donnie Schroer Hayward.” An obituary came up. Max asked me if it was Donnie. I said it sure sounds like it, but to be sure I texted the obit to Donnie’s boyhood friend, Manny Silva. Manny texted back: “Yes it’s Donnie. That truly breaks my heart. I love that guy. So sad.”
I had no idea when I was writing The Public School Boys of Hayward: A Basketball Story of Joy, Heartbreak, and Healing that one of the inspirations for the story, my friend and basketball brother, was gone. He died March 20. Here is what was said:
Donald Ray Schroer
FEBRUARY 1, 1953 – MARCH 20, 2024
Donald Ray Schroer, born on February 1, 1953, in Terre Haute, Indiana, passed away on March 20, 2024, in Tucson, Arizona. He was 71 years old.
Don was preceded in death by his loving parents, Max and Elsie Schroer. He is survived by his devoted brother, Myron Schroer, his caring sister, Dirinda Halaxa, his children, Donald Ray Schroer II and Niki Rachele Ochoa, and his cherished grandchildren, Sarah Anne Girvin and Donovan Ray Schroer.
Don's life was marked by a passion for sports and a competitive spirit that burned brightly in everything he pursued. From his early years, he displayed exceptional talent and dedication in various sports, particularly baseball and basketball. His tenacity and desire to win were evident not only on the field but also in every aspect of his life.
During his college years, Don's prowess on the basketball court earned him admiration and respect among his peers. His competitive nature drove him to excel, setting him apart as a standout athlete.
Beyond sports, Don had a zest for life that extended to his hobbies, including gambling. His competitive spirit found expression in games of chance, where he approached every wager with the same determination to come out victorious.
Don's passing leaves a void in the lives of those who knew him. His family and friends will remember him fondly for his competitive drive and his love for sports.
A memorial service to honor Don's life will be held privately with immediate family members.
For those who may not know Donnie’s story and wish to catch up, here are the three parts of the series: Part One: The Public School Boys of Hayward. Part Two: HHS to the TOC! Underdog Farmers Take On The World. Part Three: A Burden Shared is a Burden Lifted.
The next scheduled issue of Tilting West will appear this Friday as usual.