DR. GARRY CONRAD SCHROEDER

Condolences & Memories (49 entries)

• I just found out that Garry has died, I haven't seen him for a number of years, maybe at our 10th reunion. I am saddened by this news, and am remembering his wry wit, his limitless energy for studying, and his classic Garry walk, voice and wardrobe (jeans and dress shirt). We had our study lockers close by for 4 yrs, he worked long hours studying, was always willing to let you ask him for help, he was smarter than he let you know. I remember the matter of fact recall of his medical emergency in the south seas and self diagnosis, ultimately leading him to a change in career plans. I imagine he had an incredible career and was well loved by his patients. - Posted by: Tracy Tresoor (colleague) on: Jun 08, 2015

• We have known Dr Schroeder for 2 years now and cannot believe we won't hear his right to the point and compassionate words again. It was true about him not letting us do any paper work as he took care of it for us. He made it possible for us to get through the surgery and treatments with positivity and less stress. Although he was a man of few words he spoke often of you Nina. He was a great man, doctor and professional who will be never forgotten and forever missed. - Posted by: Barry and Marie Pugh (Patient) on: Jan 26, 2015

• I was extremely saddened to learn that Dr. Schroeder had passed away. I last saw him in September and as usual, he was compassionate, kind and understanding. Healthcare in MB has lost one of its best and brightest. My condolences to his family. - Posted by: Jacqueline Sedor (Patient) on: Jan 19, 2015

• Our family is deeply saddened to hear of Dr. Schroeder's passing. His good care and calm presence helped us navigate through the difficult time of my husband's brain tumor diagnosis and treatment. He was trustworthy and kind in a straight foward manner. We will miss his sense of humour. Our sincere condolences to his family. - Posted by: Kelly Milne (patient family member) on: Jan 06, 2015

• Condolences to Nina for her loss. Dr. Schroeders passing is actually all our loss. Patients, co-workers, Cancercare. Dr. Schroeder was such a dedicated doctor,w ith a dry sense of humor, and told it like it was. With him there was no hierarchy in the clinic, we were all working for the common good of the patient, side by side. He showed everyone respect. One day I came into the clinic early to collect the charts and films left from the day before and he was in there. It wasn't usual to see doctors in the clinic at 8:00 a.m. I said "you're in early this morning" and in his gruff voice he said "I've been working since 2:00 in the morning, one of my patients came in to emerg. I didn't want them to have to call the doctor on call". That's the kind of doctor he was, that's the doctor his patients loved. His patient, he was going to attend, period. Doctors like him don't come along every day. He was truly special and will be very sadly missed by all who knew him. - Posted by: Lynda Harder (co-worker) on: Jan 06, 2015

• Dr Schroeder was a genuine and unique person. I had a lot of respect for him professionally and personally. He was inspirational to me as a student several years ago and he was very kind when I asked him questions. When he treated my Granmda I experienced a doctor that took a personal approach with his care and went out of his way to help, even during his own time. I wish there were more people like Dr Schroeder in the world. I sincerely wish his family much love and comfort. - Posted by: Amanda Reid (Former RTT student ) on: Jan 05, 2015

• It is a very sad day when someone as special as Garry passes away. Working with him for close to 30 years was a pleasure and an honour and I will never forget his deep concern for his patients who were always the centre of his attention. He spoke so fondly of you Nina and my deepest sympathy for you and the family. He was a great teacher and I'm so fortunate to have known him. - Posted by: Debbie Bridle (co-worker) on: Jan 04, 2015

• The obituary for our dear friend and colleague is so fitting - thank you Garry for your years of unrelenting dedication to the pediatric patients in Manitoba and beyond. - Posted by: Geoff Cuvelier (Colleague) on: Jan 04, 2015

• He was an excellent Dr. Enjoyed many happy times with him. He will be missed by all - Posted by: Carl and Marlene Gingera Snow Lake MB. (very close friend) on: Jan 03, 2015

• I would like to express my sincere condolences to Nina and Garry’s family. Garry will be dearly missed at CancerCare. He was one person could go to at any time, for any reason. He always went the extra mile for our patients. Garry had a huge impact on many people, patients and co-workers alike. He was a one of a kind and I was truly privileged to have had the opportunity to work with Garry over the years. - Posted by: Sandra Iftody RTT (co-worker) on: Jan 03, 2015

• I had the pleasure to work with Garry many years ago in the MICU at SBH while he was a residency. Garry has a wonderful sense of humor and was a very compassionate man. I have never forgotten him and I never will. I was so sad to hear of his passing. May your memories comfort you in this time of loss. He really was a great guy!!! - Posted by: Sheila Bowles (colleague) on: Jan 02, 2015

• I am so sorry for your loss Nina. I am also sorry for the loss of CCMB. Watching Garry care for all his patients especially the pediatric patients was a pleasure. He always cared for the whole family and support us radiation therapist in our efforts to do the same. Garry was always my "go to" doctor if I had a medical question about a family member or a patient. He truly made you feel like there was no stupid question and always tried to help you. I will miss him very much! - Posted by: Colleen Kilgallen (RTT) (Co-worker) on: Jan 02, 2015

• I had the good fortune of growing up and living next door to Garry and his family for the first 15 years of my life. What you saw was what you got with Garry, as he was as serious and committed in his youth as he was in his adult life. I have so many great memories of our childhood thanks to Garry and happy we were able to get together for the traditional Sunday a.m. breakfasts in Headingley a few times this past year. You clearly made an incredible impact on all whose lives you touched. My sincere condolences to all of Garry's direct family. You have left us far too soon my friend. - Posted by: Ted McCreary (Friend and former neighbour) on: Jan 02, 2015

• I as well am truly shocked and very saddened to hear of Garry's passing. It is without a doubt a a huge loss in the medical field. Rest in peace Garry, you will never be forgotten - Posted by: Andrea Hrushka () on: Jan 01, 2015

• I met Garry many years ago when he arrived on the radiation treatment floor as a new resident. It was obvious then he was 'special'. He truly cared for each and every patient he ever came into contact with. It saddens me greatly that Garry will not be there to give patients what they truly need, expertise, yes , but more importantly the knowledge that he would move heaven and earth to care for them and fight along side them as long as they needed him. Nina I am so sorry for your loss. When Garry started his residency I said he was a 'keeper' .It is so very sad we couldn't have kept him longer. - Posted by: heather jory (retired radiation therapist) on: Jan 01, 2015

• How very sad and shocking to lose such a good Dr. at a young age. When Roger became his patient 18 months ago, we like so many others have written found him rough around the edges. This was our first appt experience. We soon saw and experienced much more from him as Roger was hospitalized in his care for 6 months. Our difficult health situation often found Dr S admitting he didn't know the answer but would look to his colleagues. That he did. He was available by phone or meeting whenever and wherever. If we met at Tim's in the cafeteria he always stopped to talk to us. Sadly as Roger turned the page for the better, Dr S was having his own issues. He clearly would have been happy to see the improvement in Roger. The tributes written above just clarify the Dr we had come to know. Our sincere sympathy to his family and colleagues. This quote describes him perfectly. "The measure of a life, after all, is not its duration, but its donation." - Corrie Ten Boom - Posted by: Roger and Susan Chartier (patient) on: Jan 01, 2015

• To those he left behind, my sincere condolences. He was one of a kind, had a heart of gold, and so dedicated to his patients. The CCMB hallways at 0700 won't be the same without him. It was an honor and a privilege having worked with you Garry. Rest in Peace my friend. - Posted by: Stella Denysuik (Co-worker) on: Dec 31, 2014

• I first met Dr. Schroeder when I was a student in CancerCare, he was very knowledgeable in his field. I have many memories of the time I got to spend with him. My only regret is that I never got the chance to work alongside him and continue to learn from him. Rest in peace Dr. Schroeder. My condolences to your family. - Posted by: Cal Sigurdson () on: Dec 31, 2014

• Having been a Cancer patient and under the care of several doctors, I have to say Dr Schroeder was one of my favourites. He always took the time to explain and show how much he cared. So very sorry to hear of his passing! I know he helped to save my life and I have been blessed that way. Cancer Care and many patients have lost an amazing doctor! Rest in peace Dr Schroeder! - Posted by: Glennis Frost (patient) on: Dec 31, 2014

• Garry, you truly were one of a kind. So many memories come flooding back; from the first time we met at the University of Winnipeg, a very long time ago, to working within the walls of Cancer Care Manitoba. I'll miss you "smiley!" - Posted by: Eileen McMillan-Ward (co-worker) on: Dec 31, 2014

• I was very saddened to hear of Garry's passing. He treated my teen daughter Darah while she was going through radiation treatment for metastatic Ewing Sarcoma. Darah LOVED his compassion, his wit and humor. Now they will be in heaven together. So sorry for your loss. He will always be remembered as a greatly loving man. - Posted by: Dana Wood (pateint) on: Dec 31, 2014

• Garry Schroeder was my late husband's oncologist. Every day before or after treatment he came to see us. He spent his precious time talking to me during a very difficult period. Garry spoke of how Mike had taught him biochemistry & of his respect for my husband. What a wonderful man & Doctor he was. My deepest sympathy to his wife. The world is a better place because of Garry Schroeder. - Posted by: Carol Leroux (patient's wife) on: Dec 31, 2014

• I was shocked and surprised to hear of Dr. Schroeder's passing. I suspected something was not right when he was not present at my last three appointments. He was a unique and funny doctor and I will miss him. - Posted by: Tracey Sanderson-welby (Patient) on: Dec 31, 2014

• My condolences to Garry's wife Nina and family, The obituary describes Dr. Schroeder perfectly. I always thought he was a bit like a burnt marshmallow, a little crusty on the surface but inside a soft and caring man. He will be missed here at Cancercare. His dedication and love of patients was evident daily. He always put aside his needs to care for others. Rest in peace Garry, you will not be forgotten! - Posted by: Marlene Dinelle (co-worker) on: Dec 31, 2014

• I only met Dr. Schroeder once and that was when he gave my 36-year old daughter the worst diagnosis, 1 year with no treatment, 3 months with treatment. As bad as this was, I remember Dr. Schroeder delivering this horrible diagnosis to us with kindness and honesty, I always appreciated that. Hopefully there is another doctor out there who will be able to fill his very big shoes. Condolences to the family. - Posted by: Louise Paille (patient's mother) on: Dec 31, 2014

• Our loss is truly heaven's gain. My condolences to Garry's family. He really was one in a million. His dedication and integrity has left an imprint on all of our lives. Not often do we meet someone who can teach us what true caring and compassion look like. That man was Garry Schroeder. Be at peace now Garry. - Posted by: Carolyn Henrick (Former patients family and friend. ) on: Dec 31, 2014

• Dr. Schroeder will be truly missed. He was one of the Great Ones that one had the opportunity, and the honour to have met. I was one of the fortunate ones. My sincere sympathies. - Posted by: Agnes Casper (co-worker (Neurosurgery Department) on: Dec 31, 2014

• I was saddened to hear of Garry’s passing. I had worked with Garry at CCM in a number of his clinics. He was an amazing kind and compassionate physician who always put the patient first. His dedication and hard work was always evident. His sense of humor made working with him a pleasure, and his commitment was unmistakable. He did have intense honor and integrity – which is very rare to find now a days, and which shone through in his day-to-day work. He spoke of his wife passionately, and loved her deeply. Garry has always stuck out in my memory as he was one of the finest physicians that I have ever worked with. I remember one of his habits was to relate patients names to where they lived; “You know, Mr. X from Lac du Bonnet….”. There are many patients in the future that will not benefit from his knowledge, expertise and compassion. My deepest condolences to his family ~ the world is truly a lesser place. - Posted by: Deb Giesbrecht (former co-worker) on: Dec 31, 2014

• I was shocked and saddened to read of Garry's passing. Before I retired, I worked around the corner in the angio department so Garry and I did see each other often. But where I originally met Garry was back in the 1960's where I was his camp counsellor at the Anglican Summer Camp. We were always saddened that the camp had gone downhill, and had to be sold. He always had a kind word, and a caring heart for his patients. He now rests in God's care. Nina, you have my deepest sympathies. - Posted by: Doug Howe (Friend) on: Dec 31, 2014

• Nina and family, my most deepest condolences. Having moved out of province a couple of years back it has been awhile since I last spoke with Garry. Hearing this news my heart just broke a little. Garry influenced me and my studies more than he will ever know. The extra time he took to teach me, both in school and in my profession will not soon be forgotten. I remember many of our conversations and keep a lot of what he said near and dear to my heart. I appreciated his frankness, his wit, and his deep seeded kindness that he tried so hard to hide. Dr. Schroeder, you will be truly missed but the impact you have had will continue on. Thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart. - Posted by: Kimberly Sebastian (Student / Co-worker) on: Dec 30, 2014

• Best wishes and sincere condolences, and thanks for the sensitive notice. We actually spoke by phone this past fall. Garry and I were in the same dissecting group in 1st. year med, played hockey, commisserated and studied together, and he always knocked me out with his brilliance, dedication, massive integrity and reluctantly shared but awesome humour. He was a credit to our profession; I wish we had stayed in contact. Kind regards, Jim - Posted by: Jim skinner (Colleague) on: Dec 30, 2014

• Dear Nina and family, I am truly saddened to hear of Garry's passing. I had the privilege of working with him over the years and respected him as a physician and a person immensely. Whenever he was needed to help a patient on the radiation floor, whether he was on call, in a busy clinic, or on the wards, he never failed to respond. Often coming down himself to see the patient and giving quiet words of encouragement. In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "... to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." Then you Dr. Schroeder have succeeded a thousand fold! - Posted by: Lidija Martins (Co-worker) on: Dec 30, 2014

• It is a sad day indeed - Dr. Schroeder provided outstanding care, not just to my wife but also to me and my family throughout our cancer journey. From our first meeting in recovery after a biopsy to transfer to palliative care years later and beyond he was always to the point, strong and decisive but always caring, concerned and compassionate and was a constant to be counted on along the way. He will be missed and the void left will not soon be filled. - Posted by: Doug Einarson (Spouse of patient) on: Dec 30, 2014

• I had the good fortune of working indirectly with Garry for fifteen years and am deeply saddened that he is no longer with us. I have the utmost respect and admiration for him. Garry didn't just treat illness; he treated people. And not just with medicine; with respect, dignity, care and compassion. As a person, he was not only a gentleman, he was a gentle man; despite his sometimes gruff exterior which always made me laugh. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Nina and all who were close to him. I'm really going to miss you, Garry. - Posted by: Melanie Edmonds (Co-worker) on: Dec 30, 2014

• To Nina and family, I am very sad to hear of Garry's death and your loss. I am grateful I had the privilege of meeting and working with you and Garry on 3EPCU, wonderful memories. Years later I met with him at CCMB, he made me feel welcome and willing to teach and help me find the resources I needed to educate myself. He always spoke so highly of you Nina and all your accomplishments. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Rachael - Posted by: Rachael Mierke (former co-worker at CCMB and 3E PCU) on: Dec 30, 2014

• First of all - my condolences to you Nina - I am so sorry for your loss. Garry always spoke about you and it was obvious to all how much he respected and loved you. As a dedicated physician - Garry was one of the best. His patients always came first. Garry was my "work friend" to whom I could not only talk about work but also have lively debates about growing up in St. James, church, politics, world events, or trivia. I will miss you my friend. It was an honour to know you and work with you. As other people have said - the world is a little less bright with you not in it. - Posted by: Deborah Scott (co-worker) on: Dec 30, 2014

• I am so sorry for your loss. Garry was my late wife Maureen's Dr. from 2006-2011. As Allison said he had a rough exterior, yet he was so compassionate. He had a way of comforting you even when your news was not great. When Maureen was given the news by Dr Pitz in 2012 that all treatments were exhausted she asked to see Dr. Schroeder, although no longer her Dr. he was in our room within minutes, it was a bond he had built with her that allowed him to give her the courage to face the final leg of her journey. I will always be grateful for everything he did for us. He was an amazing person. Rest in Peace. - Posted by: Doug Jacques (former patient's husband) on: Dec 30, 2014

• I am truly saddened to hear of Garry's passing. I had the opportunity to work with Dr Schroeder a few years ago. He had a heart of gold and his dedication to his work was so evident. He taught me so much and I will never forget this. My condolences to his family especially Nina, whom he always talked so proudly of. Garry you will be missed by so many. - Posted by: Kaeleigh Vodden () on: Dec 30, 2014

• First of all my congratulations to Dr. Schroeder's wife Nina. The obituary you wrote was absolutely perfect. Garry would have been so happy with it. There is only 1 thing that I noticed......there was no mention made of his legendary suspenders!!! I first met Dr. Garry Schroeder when he was a resident in the Radiation Oncology Program at the "old" CancerCare Manitoba which used to be called the Manitoba Cancer Foundation! This was even just before he and Nina were married. He was one of those people whom you don't come across very often. He was a straight shooter. He had no use for pomp or circumstance or rules or kissing up to anyone. The only thing that Garry cared about were his patients. He would go to the other end of the earth if it meant sparing one of his patients some pain or buying them some extra time. I was "reunited" with Garry, so to speak, when my own father was diagnosed with Prostate cancer. I was absolutely THRILLED to learn that his oncologist was Dr. Garry Schroeder! That experience again solidified for me that even after all those years, Garry was still simply Garry, a fantastic oncologist and a truly "good" person. Rest in peace Dr. Schroeder, and raise a little hell in heaven! - Posted by: Kelly Verot (Former co-worker at CancerCare Manitoba) on: Dec 30, 2014

• I am saddened to hear of Dr. Schroeder's passing. He was an amazing doctor and I feel that because of him I am here today! I have deep fondness for him and will always remember him. I have already said a prayer for him! Go in peace!! - Posted by: Rebecca Drain (patient (2011 to present)) on: Dec 30, 2014

• What a terrible, sad, shock. I can remember the first time I met Garry. I instantly liked him. I think of him as a genius. He was just so different and special. I can remember when he got married to his lovely wife and I met her. He was so proud of her and he just adored her. He used to come into our office and talk (vent sometimes)to us as though we were his friend. Whenever there was an emergency he was there. You could call him Garry, not Dr. Schroeder, he made you feel as though you were on his level even though you knew you weren't. He used to give me such a large donation for the humane society every single year. Every time I see my former co-worker I would ask how "Garry" was and she told me she hadn't seen him for quite awhile. He was like that, the kind of person that you would never forget. God love him he gave so much and he was so special. - Posted by: marianne humphreys (coworker) on: Dec 30, 2014

• Garry you were one of a kind, always telling it like it was and I am so glad I was able to know you and work alongside you for the past 12 years. Your honesty and integrity were your greatest assets and you were by far the best Radiation Oncologist CCMB ever had, or will have. Your work ethic and dedication cannot be matched and the world is a little less bright without you in it. Rest in peace, you will be immensely missed. - Posted by: Tara Bailey (Co-worker) on: Dec 30, 2014

• To Garry's wife Nina, family, and friends: as I read over Garry's obituary, the sentence that stands out most to me is "Garry was a man of intense honour and integrity". This he certainly was! And though it was clearly evident in these last few months that he was facing increasing health challenges, he soldiered on with that dry wit, tenacity, and overwhelming concern for the well-fare of his patients that was characteristically Garry. To you all, please accept my sincere and heartfelt condolences. Michelle Powder - Posted by: Michelle Powder (colleague - CancerCare Manitoba) on: Dec 30, 2014

• I was shocked and saddened to read about the death of Garry. He was such a sincere, compassionate and caring physician. He was thought very highly of by those who worked with him at the Richmand West Clinic. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife and family at this sad time. - Posted by: Judy Cameron (Co worker at the Richmond West Medical Clinic) on: Dec 30, 2014

• Dear Nina & Family, My deepest condolences to all of you. I wish I had the words to express the impact Garry had on the lives of everyone he touched both professionally and personally. He was the epitome of the true definition of a physician and was an extraordinary asset to the medical profession. The medical field will undoubtedly feel the impact of his absence. On a personal level as a friend I will miss his presence on a daily basis, his wit, his charm and always his encyclopedia of knowledge. His constant dedication exemplified the individual he was. I feel honored to have worked for so many years with him and will be forever grateful for the imprints he left on my heart. He was one in a million and I am proud to have known him for the incredible person that he was. For all the wonderful memories that I hold close, my wish for you is that you all find comfort and strength in the infinite memories of family and friends during this very difficult time. - Posted by: Wendy Petrushak (Co-worker & friend) on: Dec 30, 2014

• I am so very saddened to hear of Dr. Schroeder's passing. I was a patient of Dr. Schroeder's almost 12 years ago and it is because of his expertise and care that I am here today. I am so very sorry for the future patients who will not be able to benefit from Dr. Schroeder's wonderful bedside manner and care. With deepest sympathies to you and your family. - Posted by: Andrea Grozli (Former Patient) on: Dec 30, 2014

• Gary you will greatly missed. I felt more like a friend than a patient when I was in your care. Rest in Peace My Friend. - Posted by: Ed Burgess (Patient) on: Dec 30, 2014

• Dr Schroeder was my doctor at Cancer Care 11 years ago and he was caring, compassionate and had a great way of making things seem manageable. He went above and beyond to make sure my treatment went well and would phone on a Saturday to let me know my good test results so I wouldn't have to wait the weekend and worry! He was a beacon of light in a very dark time and he will always have a special place in my heart. - Posted by: Colleen Enns (patient) on: Dec 30, 2014

• I am truly saddened to hear of Garry's passing. He was one of the best doctors around and it was my pleasure to be able to work with him. Although he may have had a rough exterior at times, he truly had a heart of gold and always wanted what was best for the patients even if it meant having clinics that ran late or extra clinics to be able to see everyone that needed to be. Rest in peace Garry. You will be missed by many. - Posted by: Allison Moman () on: Dec 30, 2014