Charles Schraer

In Memory of Charles Schraer (Popie)

Popie, age 81 of Columbus, Nebraska formerly of Pacific Junction, Iowa passed away peacefully at his home on April 5th, 2025 surrounded by the love of his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, his legacy will live on in the laughter and memories he gifted to everyone so freely.

Born on August 14th, 1943 in Trenton,Missouri, Popie lived a life full of simple joys and deep meaning. He was never happier than with playing cards in his hands, the morning sun on his face, his coffee, and a grandchild by his side. Whether it was telling stories or slipping the grandkids extra snacks and suckers when no one was looking, he made every moment count.

Popie met his late wife Sherry and had a blended family. They each had children of their own, and then had a daughter between the two of them. They grew their family, becoming foster parents to many children for over 30 years.

A poker table was another place he called home. He was always ready with a good bluff, a better story, and a twinkle in his eye. Nobody was a better card shark than Ole Popie. Every Sunday, he was ready to put on his best moves and show everyone how it's done. It didn't matter if he just met you or if people were there for a short visit, he would invite you to come play and made room at the table for everyone. He would play music on the Alexa and jam out while playing cards. This is what he looked forward to all of the time.

More than anything else, his greatest joy was his grandkids. They were his pride, his purpose, and the center of his world. He celebrated every milestone, offered wisdom with a soft voice, and gave the kind of hugs that made the world feel safe. They are what kept him going even when he felt he wasn't strong enough. Just a simple video call to the grand babies and he would beam from ear to ear with happiness.

He was the kind of man who made life feel a little lighter, and a little kinder. Although he's gone, his love will echo in every laugh, every memory, and every grandchild's smile.

He was known for his Spongebob attire and his extensive Spongebob memorabilia. He had a love for old westerns, the news, wrestling, his fish tanks and scary movies.

He leaves behind a family who absolutely adored him. Though our hearts are heavy, we are grateful for the years we had and the love he gave so effortlessly.

He is proceded in death by his wife Sherry Schraer

Father Charles Schraer and his wife Mary

Mother Marjorie Schraer

Younger Brother Terry Taul

Step Parents Vern and Vernita Taul

Mother in Law Wanda Wynn

He is survived by his sister Sondra Wood and Husband Jeryl of Missouri

Jeanette and Jerry Foster of Iowa

Jennifer Liddick of Oklahoma

Jamie and Lance Deterding of Nebraska

Michelle (Jake) Osborne of Iowa

Bradley Schraer of Illinois

Teresa and Darrin Marsh of Illinois

Steven Schraer of Iowa

Grandkids

Zane Lord and Wife Danielle Clarich

Charlee Schraer and Fiance Dylan Blanchard

Kelsey Schraer

Cheyanne Barber and Fiance Chad Kroese

Darian Liddick and Wife Alexis Liddick

Taren Liddick

Farah Foster

Nathan Deterding

Ryan Deterding

Brad, Michael & Kristen Schraer

Darrin Jr, Ashley & Olivia Marsh

And many many many great grand babies that he loved and cherished.

Special thanks to St. Croix Hospice for helping with final wishes.