Roger L. Schutte, a man of quiet wisdom and unwavering integrity, passed into the presence of his Savior on March 26, 2026, at the age of 92. Roger was born in Redfield, South Dakota, the son of Fred and Hazel Schutte. He graduated from Waverly High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Architectural Engineering from the University of Nebraska Lincoln.
Roger spent his life designing spaces that offered both earthly comfort and spiritual refuge. After working as an architect for other firms, he opened his own architectural firm, Roger L Schutte & Associates in Omaha, Nebraska in 1967. He grew the firm into a nationally recognized senior living design firm, overseeing major facilities from New England to Washington State, and Florida to California. His vision provided dignity and "home" to thousands of seniors across the United States. In 1991, he joined with Charley Wilscam and John Birge to form RDG Schutte, Wilscam, Birge; the firm now known as RDG Planning & Design, the company from which he eventually retired.
A lifelong committed Christian, Roger also designed many houses of worship throughout his career. His architectural legacy is etched into the fabric of many communities. His leadership extended to board memberships at Crown College in Minnesota and retirement communities in Florida. He is now exploring the "city with eternal foundations, whose architect and builder is God" (Hebrews 11:10).
He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Shirley. His children Laurie (Randy) Hicks, Julie (Ken) Clipperton. Grandchildren Rachel (Ben) Petersen, Rebekah (Hugh) Ivester, Dan (Rebecca) Clipperton, Ben Clipperton, and Johanna (Eddie) Navarrete. Great-grandchildren Anya Petersen and Jae Navarrete. He is also survived by his sister Eula Mae Gilmore, and brother-in-law Claire (Mary Ann) Fredstrom.
Following a private family burial, a public visitation will be Friday, April 10, 2026, from 5:00 - 7:00 PM at Roeder Mortuary - Gretna Chapel. The Celebration of Life service will take place at 10:30 AM Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Standing Stone Bible Church, 321 S. Hwy 6, Gretna, Nebraska, with a luncheon to follow.
Memorials to Standing Stone Bible Church (Gretna), Open Door Mission (Omaha), Eastmont Foundation (Lincoln), or People’s City Mission (Lincoln).
Roeder Mortuary 11710 Standing Stone - Gretna, NE - 402-332-0090 www.RoederMortuary.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Apr
10
Funeral services provided by:
Roeder Mortuaries - Gretna Chapel11710 Standing Stone Drive, Gretna, NE 68028

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