Orval Ray "Buzz" Schraeder

Orval Ray “Buzz” Schraeder passed away peacefully on February 28, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born on March 3, 1938, in Wessington Springs, South Dakota, to Henry and Esther Schraeder. Buzz grew up on the family farm alongside his 16 siblings, learning early the value of hard work, family loyalty, and the simple joys of country life.

Known to family and friends as “Buzz,” he carried with him throughout his life the love of the outdoors that began during his childhood on the plains of South Dakota. He found great happiness in the wilderness—especially while fishing and hunting. Buzz also had a natural gift for connecting with people. He loved helping others and could often be found listening patiently to someone’s story, sharing a laugh, or offering quiet encouragement.

Buzz proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from April 19, 1957, to April 18, 1961. After completing his military service, he worked various jobs until 1966, when he began a long and dedicated career with Boeing in Washington State. He remained with Boeing until his retirement in 2001.

Family meant everything to Buzz. He especially looked forward to the large family gatherings and annual reunions where he could reminisce about growing up in a big household, reconnect with relatives, and pass along his love for fishing to younger generations.

Buzz is survived by his twin sister, Opal Uthe of South Dakota; brothers Ronald Schraeder of Washington, Merle Schraeder of Utah, and Russell Schraeder of Minnesota; and sisters Marylin Simmons of California, Sylvia Schraeder of Nevada, Gloria Uhing of Nebraska, Luana of Washington, and Cheryl Schraeder of Minnesota. He is also survived by 36 nieces and nephews and more than 120 great and great-great nieces and nephews, all of whom were part of the large and loving family he cherished.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Esther Schraeder; sisters Lydia Beckler, Josephine Martin, Maxine Schraeder, Sharon Schraeder, and Susan Borszich; and brothers Henry Schraeder and Eugene Schraeder. He was also preceded in death by several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service in celebration of Buzz’s life will be held in July during the annual family reunion in Wessington Springs, South Dakota, a place that remained close to his heart throughout his life.

Buzz will be remembered for his quiet kindness, his love of the outdoors, and the many stories shared around fishing lines, campfires, and family tables. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.