MASON CITY — Janet Kay Schroeder, 74, of Mason City, died Thursday, October 15, 2026, at Heritage Care Center, leaving a legacy of caring that extended from her nursing career to the family members who depended on her.
A private family graveside service will be held at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Dows. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Cremation has taken place in accordance with her wishes.
Born June 7, 1952, in Clarion, Janet was the daughter of Robert and Olga (Foss) Beach. She grew up on farms throughout Wright County and graduated from Dows Community High School in 1970.
She continued her education at the American Institute of Business in 1971 and subsequently worked as a receptionist for Lifetime Motor Homes in Mason City.
Janet married Jeffrey Burt on October 23, 1971. They lived in Eschbach, Germany, during his military service and welcomed their son, Eric. After returning to the United States and later divorcing, Janet settled in Mason City.
She worked at North Iowa Area Community College until 1978 before pursuing nursing there. After graduating in 1979, she began her nursing career at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Mason City.
On November 4, 1991, Janet married Michael Schroeder. They made their home in Kamrar, where she worked as a charge nurse at South Field Wellness Community. They moved to Dows in 1997 and returned to Mason City in 2024.
Janet retired from nursing in 2016, but caring for others remained central to her life. She helped her mother through illness and later cared for Mike, bringing the same commitment to her family that had guided her professional work.
Away from nursing, Janet enjoyed searching for antiques and restoring furniture. She could recognize the promise in an overlooked piece and enjoyed giving it new life. Trips to Savannah, Georgia, with her mother and sisters became treasured memories, and she later enjoyed traveling with Mike.
She valued her friendships, adored her dogs and took particular pride in her son and grandchildren. Her family describes a woman with a determined streak, a ready sense of humor and an open heart.
Janet is survived by her husband, Michael Schroeder; son, Eric (Kristi) Burt; stepchildren, Rodney (Shannon) Schroeder and Courtney Asklund; grandchildren, Max Burt, Lydia Schroeder and Sahvana Asklund; sisters, Patricia (Michael) Larpenter and Peggy (Michael) Miller; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Olga Beach.
Family and friends may share condolences and find future celebration-of-life information through Janet’s obituary at Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapels.
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