Dr. George C. Schowengerdt, 89, passed away peacefully at his home in Rolla, Missouri, on February 6, 2026. He was born on January 13, 1937, in Kansas City, Kansas, to Dr. G. Carl and Olive Bernice (Coughlin) Schowengerdt, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Ruth Rogers of Hawaii.

George dedicated his life to education, service, and helping others. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, a Master of Science in Counseling from Stout State University in Menomonie, Wisconsin, and completed his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology in 1969 at the University of Missouri–Columbia.

He spent the majority of his professional career at the University of Missouri–Rolla, retiring as Associate Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs. During his tenure, he served as Director of the Counseling Center and Director of Instructional Television, roles through which he supported countless students and colleagues. George also served the Rolla community as a psychologist for the Rolla Police Department, a Reserve Deputy with the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and countless hours of service with the Missouri Highway Patrol.

George is survived by the love of his life, Mary Schowengerdt, who remains in their home. He is also survived by his daughter Gwen Cresswell and husband Doug of Rolla; his son David Schowengerdt and wife Jill of Rolla; step daughter Beth Benton and husband Mark of Ozark; and bonus daughter Summer Thorp-Lancaster and husband Mike of Rolla.

He leaves behind his grandchildren, including Joshua McBride (Tasha), Jared McBride (Megan), Nicole Mason (Keith) and Dane Benton (Tricia), great‑grandchildren Carter McBride, Cason McBride, Lawson McBride, Kennedie McBride, Colt Mason, Case Mason, Marshall Benton and Emily Benton as well as one niece, Carla Rogers of Kaneohe, HI.

George lived life with curiosity, energy, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors. He enjoyed camping, hiking, traveling, running, and bicycling. Among his many adventures, he rode his bicycle from California to Texas, completed the entire Katy Trail, and explored the scenic trails of Door County, Wisconsin. One of his most memorable accomplishments was hiking to the base of the Grand Canyon and back at the remarkable age of 73.

He will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, and unwavering love for his family and community.

George Carl Schowengerdt will lie in state at 1:00 p.m. Friday February 13, 2026, at the Jones Funeral Home in St. James, Missouri.

Funeral Services for George Carl Schowengerdt will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Friday February 13, 2026, at the Jones Funeral Home in St. James, Missouri with Don Carson officiating. Pallbearers will be Josh Mc Bride, Jared McBride, David Schowengerdt, Dane Benton, Keith Mason and Colton Mason. Burial will be in the St. James Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Central Community Church of God in Rolla, Missouri or First Church of God, St James, Missouri.

All arrangements are under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home of St. James, Missouri.