Obituary

Earl R. Schroeder, 83, died Tuesday (Dec. 21, 2010) at Kansas Christian Home in Newton.

He was born on Oct.19, 1927, in Goessel to David J. and Anna (Krause) Schroeder. He married Racine Smith in 1946, and she preceded him in death. He later married Esther Fast in 1952 at Alexanderwhol Mennonite Church in Goessel, and she survives.

Earl had several jobs in his working life, including farming, Hesston Corp, Hay and Forage and the Boeing company. His faith was very important to him, and he was an active member of Newton Bible Church. Earl enjoyed outdoor activities including yard and garden work, camping and boating. He especially enjoyed traveling and vacations. Family was very important to Earl, and he looked forward to spending time with his many friends and family, especially his McDonalds Coffee Group.

He also is survived by sons, James and Julene Schroeder of Whitewater, Kenneth and Peggy Schroeder of Hillsboro and Darrel and Venita Schroeder of Newton; three sisters, Ann and Art Boese of Goessel, Lois and Ralph Janzen of Goessel and Jean and Rudy Newfield of Peabody; one brother, Ivan and Kathy Schroeder of Newton; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, David P. Schroeder.

Visitation will be from 1 to 9 p.m. Monday (Dec 27) at Petersen Funeral Home with the family receiving friends from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday at Newton Bible Church. Pastor Ted Veer will officiate. Memorials are suggested to Newton Bible School or Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice in care of Petersen Funeral Home.