Ronald Schroeder, director of the Small Business Development Center, died March 3 of undetermined causes at East Jefferson General Hospital.

He was 69.

Schroeder taught many undergraduate and graduate business courses and helped establish the Small Business Development Center.

Last year, he was recognized as a State Star for his work at the center, and colleges also saw his devotion to his work as well as his students.

“Dr. Schroeder was a dedicated member of the Loyola community,” said Sara Attaya, assistant to the associate dean of the College of Business.

Schroeder began his career at Loyola as a part-time faculty member. In 1984 he became a staff consultant in the center and was named director of the development center three years later.

“Ron was always involved in the activities of the college,” said Dean Patrick O’Brian. “He has always sought ways in which the center could be more engaged in the provision of a learning environment for our students.”

Services were held last Thursday at Leitz-Eagan funeral home.

He is survived by his wife, Marlene, his two sons, Ronald and Brant, and his three grandchildren.