A FAIRYTALE LOVE STORY

While the idea of a fairytale love story may seem like something reserved for the movies, for Owatonna’s Larry and Kate Schroeder, it is reality.

The married couple of 36 years has lived happily in Owatonna since 1988, but the origins of their relationship started way before their move to Steele County.

“Mrs. Thompson’s second-grade class,” said Larry looking back on the early years. “My memory was that I sat next to her and thought I might have gotten in trouble for talking too much. But we actually have a picture of that first day. We used to run into Mrs. Thompson after she retired, and she was always so proud we met in her class.”

Now decades later, Larry still recalls their first day in second grade. “We sat next to each other… and I was in love… I didn’t even know what forever was at the time… but now that I found it, I can’t imagine living life without it… you’re what makes my world spin around! Forever is not near long enough with the woman you love… but I love growing old together and I know the best is yet to come… thanks for sharing your lifetime with me,” Larry shared with Kate on their anniversary last August.

The two Postville, Iowa natives dawned smiles while reminiscing on their adolescent days spent roller skating and going to movies together in their small town.

As could be expected of a couple that met so early on in life, both experienced many firsts together over the course of their relationship, with some serving as memories to look back on and laugh.

“I remember my hands always being so sweaty when I was around her. Back in those days when we would go to the movies it was always nervous, ‘How am I going to get my arm around her,’ kind of scenario. I especially hated roller skating because I’d always end up embarrassing myself,” said Larry with a laugh.

While the two obviously had a strong connection from the start, an official tag on the relationship was not established until high school – a decision both said just kind of clicked after Larry asked Kate to the homecoming dance.

“He just thought he was going to get a date for homecoming,” said Kate with a laugh. “I wasn’t so sure about that.”

According to the two, it was their junior year when the relationship really took off, and they have been together ever since.

They were married on Aug. 3, 1986 at Kate’s Catholic Church in their hometown of Postville. The marriage has been blessed with two children, Kenzie and Zeke.

Key aspects of their longstanding relationship have been simple: no jealousy and allowing one another to enjoy personal interests – whether they are shared or not.

“I know that she wants me to be happy, and it’s evident in the things you see in the house,” said Larry speaking about his taxidermy animals from hunting expeditions. “You find things that you do apart, and if the other person supports your passions, you’re both going to be happier. I support and encourage her whether she wants to go shopping or take a vacation with friends without me, and she does the same for me when I want to go out hunting. But nowadays our big thing we do together is going to country concerts.”

While the relationship that the two have built has seemed normal to both, they do understand that their love story is an uncommon one.

As is the case for most couples, they have seen divorce and death amongst friends and family that serve as subtle reminders of the fragility of life.

However, one thing has never changed about the Schroeders’ outlook on the future.

“We truly believe that the best days are yet to come,” said Kate. “Those are the words we live by, and we’ve been pretty fortunate.”

As Valentine’s Day approaches Steele County on Feb. 14, love will be in the air amongst those searching for their significant other.

Fear not those in such a situation, for the Schroeders have advice on how where to look.

“I’d say probably don’t be afraid to commit to a relationship with a best friend. Our kids would go to homecoming and say, ‘Oh well so-and-so are just friends.’ Well, be careful what you wish for because this thing could go on and turn into something special,” said Larry.

As for Kate, the message was similar regarding committing to a relationship with a best friend. However, another key aspect in a relationship is understanding who you want to be with.

“I’d say start with someone that shares the same values and morals. It helps so much when you find someone who believes in what you believe in, in any aspect of life. Family morals are huge and can go a long way with making sure a person is right for you.”

While the two do not have special plans in place for Valentine’s Day, both admitted that every day they get to spend with one another feels special.

With retirement, warmer weather and a host of country concerts filling their schedules for the upcoming summer, it truly does seem like the best days are yet to come for the Schroeders.