Wilhelm "Bill" Schroeder

It is with a mixture of sadness and joy that we share the passing of Wilhelm (Bill) Schroeder, on September 6, 2024. Sadness, as he has left a hole in each of our hearts that may never be filled. Joy, in that he no longer suffers, and we know that he is in heaven together with Mom.

He is survived by his three daughters: Diane (Steve), Lori (Garry), Julie (Dale); grandchildren: Andrew (Janessa), Kari-Ann (Jamie), Kaylan (Nathan), Janelle (Graeme) and Alysha; great-grandchildren: Lincoln, Darcy, Everette, and Emmery. He is also survived by his siblings: Dick (Marion), Trudy, sister-in-law Agnes, and brother-in-law Elmer (Ruth). He was predeceased by his wife Elizabeth (Betty) Schroeder (nee Toews), and 11 siblings.

Bill was born on December 27, 1931, and raised in Halbstadt, where he developed life-long friends, farmed, and raised his family. Bill married the love of his life, Betty, on July 13, 1958. He farmed with his brothers Dick and Pete until his retirement in 1993 at which time Bill and Betty moved to Altona. 

In his early years, Bill developed a passion for playing hockey. He played for Halbstadt and the Altona Maroons. Bill was an aggressive hockey player who was known for the use of his sharp elbows in the corner.

Bill’s most beloved treasures were his wife, three daughters, and their families. He was a quiet, unassuming man who seemed to walk into situations that created wonderful stories and much laughter. Schroeder Bros. (Pete, Dick, Bill, and their families), his farm, and his community were very important to Bill. He was very involved in the Halbstadt community as well as in the Sommerfelder Church fellowship, where life-long friendships were developed. Bill and Betty were active in the community choir and Sommerfelder Mass Choir. Bill had a deep bass voice that was still in tune until his last days. He loved dessert, a good wiener roast with friends and family, as well as watching hockey, baseball, and football. Bill excelled as a grandfather. His grandchildren loved the hours spent with them: playing, reading, building, and simply sitting with them. 

Bill faithfully walked with Jesus. He was baptized, upon confession of his faith in 1956. His prayer list was long as he prayed over his family, friends that were ailing, and anyone who was struggling. Daily, and even in his dying hours, he recited the Lord’s prayer and the 23rd Psalm. 

He deeply mourned the loss of Betty in 2021, and we were encouraged by the grace, strength, and faith with which he carried on. Although Bill will be dearly missed by all who knew him, we are thankful that he is now rejoicing in heaven with Betty and Jesus, his Lord and Saviour. 

It is with much gratitude that we thank Dr. Haq and the Altona Hospital nursing staff for lovingly caring for Dad during his last days. Special thanks to Marion, Glenda, and Dad’s many friends and family who supported him with delicious home-cooked meals and timely visits/phone calls. Thanks also to Wiebe Funeral Home for their kind and thoughtful service. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Altona Community Foundation.

A celebration of Bill's life will be held on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at the Altona Sommerfeld Mennonite Church.  Interment will take place prior to the service at 1:00 p.m. at the Altona Cemetery.  Viewing will be at Wiebe Funeral Home Altona on Monday, September 9 from 1:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Donations in memory of Bill may be made to the Altona Community Foundation.