David Schriemer

David A. Schriemer

David A. Schriemer, 81, passed away on June 28th from complications of Alzheimer's disease. He was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan on May 17, 1933 to Andrew Schriemer and Harriet (Hoffman) Schriemer, both of Dutch descent. Dave was proud of his heritage and continued research and record keeping about his geneology throughout his lifetime. At age 18, he attended Calvin College until joining the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He served in Japan as part of the Army Security Agency, learning to speak Japanese while stationed there. After his military service, he earned a B.A. degree from Florida Southern College where he met his future wife, Carolyn Arey. They were married November 26, 1959. He continued his education at the University of Florida, obtaining a M.S. degree in psychology in 1960. He and Carolyn moved to Miami in 1961, and he worked for United Cerebral Palsy for one year before he began his 38-year career with the State of Florida. While with the State of Florida, he had an opportunity to complete post-graduate studies at Harvard University. He was transferred to Tallahassee in 1966 to work with the Department of Education as State Supervisor for Staff Development and Training. In 1979 he earned his Ph.D., and for the next ten years held the position of State Director of Mental Health Services for the Department of Corrections. He later transitioned to clinical work within the department as a Senior Psychologist, retiring in January 2000. Their daughter, Meredith, was born in 1971 and they enjoyed a close relationship with shared interests in tennis, photography, and sailing. Dave spent many happy weekends as captain of their sailboat, Sea Fever, sharing adventures with family and friends. He welcomed son-in-law Todd Christie to the family in 1998, and was proud that he and Meredith had continued the family tradition as University of Florida graduates. In 2002 and 2005, he became an adoring "Papa" to his two grandchildren, Olivia and Grayson. Dave also had a special bond with Carolyn's younger sisters and their families, as well as his cousins. After retirement, he and Carolyn enjoyed attending Gator sporting events and were active members of the Capital Area Gator Club. They also cherished time spent traveling, especially with close friends who had been part of their neighborhood supper club for over 30 years. The family wishes to express their deep gratitude towards Home Instead, Tallahassee Memory Care, and Big Bend Hospice for their care and support. A memorial celebration will be held July 19 at Goodwood Musuem, Jubilee Cottage, from 3-5pm. Donations may be made to Goodwood Museum and Gardens, 1600 Miccosukee Road, or Alzheimer's Project of Tallahassee, 301 E. Tharpe Street.