February 16, 1927 – December 19, 2020
John Schroeder passed away peacefully December 19, 2020 at the age of 93. 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 5 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 long-time 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, Cancer Care Manitoba, Heart and Stroke Foundation or a charity of your choice.
Please see www.friendsfs.ca for obituary.
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Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de John Schroeder Saturday December 19th 2020..
Décès pour la Ville: Winnipeg, Province: Manitoba