Dieter Schueller


1942-2025


Millicent has lost one of its dedicated volunteers, following the passing of Dieter Schueller recently.


Dieter was born on July 8, 1942 in Lörrach, Germany, the second of three children.


He had an older brother, Heinz, and a younger sister Ursula.


Dieter’s father was a carpenter who served in the German forces in both World Wars.


His father was captured and became a prisoner of war of the Russians at end of WWII.


After the war, during the hard years in post-war Germany, Dieter was sent to work on farms as a young boy, bringing home payment for his labours in the form of produce such as meat, sausages and vegetables.


Dieter worked in his father’s carpentry business as a seven-year-old, operating machinery including a large bandsaw on which he cut his leg and bore the scar for the rest of his life, much to the annoyance of his mother.


The family emigrated to Australia in the 1950s and Dieter then worked with his father in a concreting business.


Dieter joined the RAAF in May 1969 and served until May 1978.


He married his first wife, Jackie, with whom he had one son, Anthony.


After RAAF service, Dieter went to work with Hindmarsh Council where he stayed until retirement.


Dieter’s wife Jackie died in 2002 after a long struggle with multiple sclerosis.


Dieter met his future wife Jean after Jackie’s death and the pair moved to Zeehan in Tasmania in 2003, and they married in 2005.


In 2006, they moved to Millicent where Dieter joined Probus and the Country Fire Service as a volunteer firefighte.


He also volunteered with Meals on Wheels.


Dieter and Jean spent time farm sitting, caring for properties and stock during owners’ absences.


Dieter joined the RSL in Millicent for companionship with fellow veterans and was elected as the treasurer.


Dieter had a number of health issues in later life.


He fought for a number of years to get his entitlements from DVA, finally obtaining cover for several service-related issues.


Last year Dieter suffered a stroke which had him hospitalised for some months and then entered into care at Sheoak Lodge.


He passed away peacefully on February 15.


His eulogy was delivered by Millicent RSL president Chris Mathias at the funeral held at the Millicent RSL Hall.