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JOHN SCHROEDER
Born: Feb 16, 1927
Date of Passing: Dec 19, 2020
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JOHN SCHROEDER
February 16, 1927 - December 19, 2020
John is lovingly remembered by Heidi, his wife of 70 years; his five children, Terry McKee (Walt), Linda Arlt (Peter Bagot), Rick Schroeder (Susan), Tom Schroeder, Sandy de Jong (KC); 12 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; as well as his sister Hildegard Knopf. John was predeceased by his parents, Victor and Lydia Schroeder; and his sister Dagmar Redekop.
John was born on February 16, 1927 and spent his early years on the farm at Pigeon Lake. He never lost his interest in farming nor his love of the land. When the Schroeder family later moved to Winnipeg, John developed what became a lifelong appreciation for sport. He excelled at hockey, baseball, and in later years golfing, waterskiing and curling. As a loyal Jets fan, John proudly donned his jersey and didn't miss a game, preferably live but recorded if absolutely necessary.
John had a deep and abiding faith instilled in him by his father Victor, whom he admired and respected. He was an active member of the North Kildonan Mennonite Church, serving in many other capacities over the years.
It was at First Mennonite Church that John met Heidi, the love of his life, while singing in the choir. A first date at Skinners sealed the deal, and later became a Mother's Day dining tradition. They were married in 1950, during the year of the great flood. Together they raised five children in a caring and loving home. John was a devoted husband and father, and adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He especially loved to cuddle babies in the nape of his neck and blow kisses to the toddlers.
John's work life began with Sherwin Williams, first in Winnipeg and then in Edmonton, as the sales representative for Western Canada. In 1959 he moved his family back to Winnipeg, when he decided to establish Haddon Hall Men's Wear with his longtime friend and partner, George Dyck. John always enjoyed helping his clients "dress for success". John was a people person through and through. He was honest, straightforward and ethical; characteristics that led him to a successful third career in real estate with Block Brothers, where he worked until retirement. Anyone who had the pleasure of working with John knew him as an honorable man.
John was also community minded, serving on several boards and committees including the Crosstown Credit Union, Concordia Hospital and Bethania, to name a few.
As a lover of the outdoors, John shared many good times with family and friends at their Brereton Lake cottage. Whether he was towing you on skis, teaching you the finer art of blueberry picking, tossing horseshoes for the win, or burning the odd hot dog, you always felt welcomed by Captain John's warm hugs and broad smile. His lake neighbours invariably became part of the family.
As you might imagine, while participating in sports, volunteering at his church and within his community, and throughout his career, John made many friends. People knew him to be kind, generous, open to a chat, and willing to lend a helping hand. He warranted all the admiration he received, and will be truly missed by many.
Visits at Bethania were limited due to COVID restrictions, however the family took comfort knowing that the staff at Bethania provided loving care to John in his final days. The extended Schroeder family is so very grateful.
A private interment will be held, and a Celebration of Life will take place at a later date when health advisories permit.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Diabetes Canada, CancerCare Manitoba, Heart and Stroke Foundation, or a charity of your choice.
This obituary may also be viewed at www.friendsfs.ca.
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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 26, 2020
Condolences & Memories (9 entries)
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John was the broker at Block Bros Realty when I worked there in the late '70s. I shall remember him as a cheerful, positive, honest and caring person whose attitude towards living we would be wise to emulate. My condolences to Heidi and family. - Posted by: Erling Braaten (co-worker) on: Jan 18, 2021
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Just found out about Uncle John. I am so sorry. Uncle John was the same age as my dad when he died. There is a good crowd now wherever they are. Your words at my dad's and mom's funeral will ever be forgotten. Again Tim and I are so very sorry for your loss. Jan - Posted by: Jan Hawkins (Vic and Joy,s daughter) on: Jan 08, 2021
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Our condolences to Heidi, Sandy, and the family. Schroeders were wonderful neighbours to my grandfather Russell Chatfield at Brereton and became good friends. John set the bar for us when it came to the "height of the spray" when we learned how to slalom waterski. The last time I visited with John and Heidi was bittersweet as it was during the final trip to their cabin. However, it was enjoyable to see them one more time. - Posted by: Tracy McCarthy (Teeple) (Friend from Brereton Lake) on: Dec 29, 2020
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My memories of Mr. Schroeder go back as long as i have been alive. He had the brightest smile, my father's partner at Haddon Hall Men's Wear. Growing up, our families spent time together. I send condolences to all the kids, and to Mrs. Schroeder. Valorie Dyck - Posted by: Valorie Dyck (A lifelong presence) on: Dec 28, 2020
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Lovely, lovely obituary. Hans remembers at the age of 15 getting his first suit together with his dad at Haddon’s. Your dad will be greatly missed but you have treasured memories! Our prayers are with you Hans and Lorna - Posted by: Hans and Lorna (Friends ) on: Dec 27, 2020
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Our condolences to Rick, Susan and family. - Posted by: Wayne and Joann Reitmeier (Brereton Lake) on: Dec 27, 2020
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So very sorry to hear of John’s passing. He was a great man. I had the benefit of knowing him for years as lake neighbours. He had a great sense of humour and was always up for evening game of dominoes with Heidi, my parents and I. He was a wonderful friend to my parents. They did many things together as couples. He was a great man who made friends with everyone! He will be greatly missed! My sincerest condolences to Heidi, Terry, Linda, Rick, Tom, Sandy and their families. May John Rest In Peace! He was one of the best! - Posted by: Robert Lobson (Lake Neighbour ) on: Dec 27, 2020
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So sad to read of Mr Schroeder’s passing. Sending condolences to Mrs Schroeder and family. Mr Schroeder was my water skiing hero! So many good memories of more than 40 years at Brereton Lake! Your friendship meant the world to my folks! Janice Hudson (Lobson) - Posted by: Janice Hudson (Brereton Lake Neighbours ) on: Dec 27, 2020
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My condolences to Heidi and the family. John was loved by anyone who got to know him. I first met John when I bought a suit at Haddon Halls men’s wear and became friends when we worked together in Real Estate at Block Bro’s. Realty Ltd. He was a gentleman with a winning smile, one of his favourite sayings was “winning isn’t everything but it sure beats losing!” after a curling game. My last visit with John he told me he did laps up & down the hallway to stay in shape. Rest In Peace John! - Posted by: Ron Derksen (Co-worker and friend) on: Dec 26, 2020