Frederick "Fred" Alan Schroeder DMD

Dr. Frederick Alan Schroeder, “Dr. Fred” to many adoring patients, unexpectedly passed away Sunday afternoon, July 18, 2021, with his family at his side. In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations to The Nest and ASPCA.

( www.thenestlexington.org  https://www.aspca.org/ways-to-give )

Fred Schroeder earned a B.S. Biology degree from UC Davis and a DMD from the University of Kentucky. Fred and his son, Thadler A. Schroeder, DMD, have served Lexington patients for over 40 years in a leading dental practice. Dr. Fred was known for his sangfroid demeanor, true spontaneity, a cunning yet goofy sense of humor, and an unparalleled bedside manner that put both friends and patients at ease. He always had a smile to share and a silly joke on hand. A smile in return was always his biggest reward. His dental practice operated by the “golden rule” and always made a point to “Cater to Cowards.” His loyal patients are known for recalling moments of true heroism and kindness from Dr. Schroeder. Once an EMT driver in Southern California, Fred would even recount stunning stories of saving people, including his participation in tending to the wounded in an active shooter situation. While in Southern California, Dr. Fred would spend the weekends body surfing and diving for abalone. He thoroughly enjoyed the southern California lifestyle and even taught his son, Tali, to windsurf when returning to the ocean in South Carolina years later.

His personal passions included sailing, traveling the globe, tending to his gardens and practicing a Zen-like art of pool maintenance. A consummate host with a love for an occasional vodka and tonic, Fred and his wife Carol constantly entertained family and friends at their home. As an avid University of Kentucky basketball fan and US soccer fan, Fred carried principles of coaching and leadership through his dental practice and into the community. He coached several years of soccer and even led Thad’s soccer team to a runner-up finish in the 1996 state championship.

Truly a man for all seasons, Fred had a burning passion for travel; from riding a camel in the Egyptian desert to the great pyramids to sailing the azure waters of the Aegean. Fred relished visiting his daughter in Borneo as she studied Orangutans. Sailing the globe with his beloved Carol upon retirement always seemed to be "next year." Fred couldn't fathom leaving his patients and his practice.

No man ever loved his family more truly or fiercely.  Fred adored his wife and felt it his mission in life to make all her dreams come true. Fred was Carol's rock and she his. He took most pride in his beautiful and successful children. His grandchildren called him Papi and they always looked forward to golf cart rides and swimming lessons with him. They were the light of his life. His loss is immeasurable to his family, friends, and colleagues. Fred Schroeder’s generosity and kindness to everyone he touched will be his legacy.

Born October 28, 1950 in Coshocton, Ohio to parents Carl and Margaret Johnston Schroeder, Dr. Schroeder is survived by his loving wife, Carol Y. Schroeder; siblings, Anne Karem and husband David, Jeff Schroeder and wife Laurie; children, Dr. Thadler Alan and wife Dr. Kristina Neda Schroeder, Neftali “Tali” Adams and Katie Kraska; grandchildren, Aliksandros Adams, Maksimillian Schroeder, and Beckham Schroeder. Of utmost importance to him, it must be noted that he will be survived by the memories of the community that he served for over 40 years in the field of dentistry.

Visitation Friday, July 23, 2021, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm; Service July 24, 2021 11:00 am – 12:00 pm, Milward-Man O' War, 1509 Trent Blvd., Lexington, Ky.  40515.