June 4th, 1926 - May 17th, 2021
Passed away peacefully, with family by his side on May 17. Jim is once again joined with his beloved wife Janet of 54 years, whom he was predeceased by in 2007. He will be dearly missed by his children Gary (Margo) and Todd (Kimberly), grandchildren Tyler James (Jessica), Hillary, Jesse and Zachary, great grandchildren Oliver & Abigail Reed and Theodore James Schroeder, and Kimberly's children Kaitlyn and Cameron. He is survived by his siblings Glen Schroeder and May Hancock. Jim is predeceased by his parents William and Edith Schroeder, as well as his siblings Gerald (WWII Pilot, killed in action), LeRoy, Earl, Orville, Uel, Reginald and Harry.
Jim was born in Crediton, ON and was one of 10 children. He grew up on the family farm near Centralia, ON. His four older brothers were in the Air Force in WWII, leaving Jim to give up his education at Grade 9 to work on the farm. Jim joined Bell Canada in 1947 and had a successful 40 year career with them before retiring. He was a proud member of the Bell Pioneers. Jim built a house in London and lived there for 65 years. Neighbours waited for the Schroeder star to be placed up high in the oak tree every year at Christmas; a 50+ year tradition. He was a charter member of Mount Zion United Church, where he would be known to help with maintenance and events there. Jim was kind, helpful and well respected in the church, his work and with friends and family.
Jim enjoyed family road trips when his children were younger. He took great pleasure in helping his brothers on the family farm, going for coffee with his friends, as well as golfing. He also cherished time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Due to COVID restrictions and Jim’s wishes, no Funeral Service is to be held. Interment to take place in Exeter at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada.
