Richard G. Schroeder's Obituary
Oshkosh Mi gosh!
Richard Schroeder’s life journey began with his birth in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, to Glenn and Madalyn (Meyers) Schroeder. He was one of six children. Richard excelled academically, first at high school, and then at Seattle University, where he earned his Chemist Degree and finished in the top 1% of his class. Throughout his life, Richard resided in Oshkosh and Fond du lac, Wisconsin, Hawaii, California, Portland and Milwaukie, Oregon as well as Seattle, Port Orchard & Tacoma, Washington. Richard had the appearance of the stereotypical German, a gruff exterior with a commanding voice. However, he was not this way in manner at all, but rather a loving, honorable and soft-hearted man.
Working for the Good
Richard utilized his chemistry knowledge for many years working as a Nuclear Chemist. After many years of working with chemicals that may have hurt the environment, Richard switched gears to have a positive impact. He became a waste water assessor for the state of Washington. In this role, Richard devoted his time and energy to stop hazardous chemicals from getting into the lakes, bays, and ocean. This positive change in the direction of his employment, he marked with pride. Richard was also a Korean War Veteran, serving his country in the U.S. Navy, and later worked as a Journeyman outside machinist and electrician.
Richard’s Passions
Richard had a diverse range of talents and interests. First and foremost, Richard was a member of the Honolulu running club; he loved to run. His physical activities also included skiing, hiking, beachcombing, and camping. His musical talents included the trumpet, coronet, harmonica, violin, and “Arhu” (Chinese violin). Richard was an avid reader and enjoyed writing poetry. He also enjoyed time playing “friendly” poker, e-mailing his friends, and enjoying the company of others in conversation. He was an avid “Cheese Head” following his Green Bay Packers, and enjoyed the company of his four-legged companions, Snoopy and Tootles.
The Love of Family
Richard’s greatest joy came from his family. He was most proud of his marriage to his loving wife, Lois Kiyoko Schroeder, whom he met, married, and started a family in Hawaii. The birth of their son, Philip, marked Richard’s other moment of great pride. Richard was a kind-hearted, loving man, and loved to watch his family grow to include four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Running the Tough Race
In 2002, Richard was struck with Guillain Barre Syndrome, which is an auto-immune disease. This disease left Richard paralyzed from the waist down. Ever the fighter, Richard learned to use his hands and arms, learned to eat, speak, and write again. He never gave up and developed the ability to exercise and even play his instruments. Richard drew strength from the love of his family and a developed relationship with his Lord and Savior.
A Journey’s End
Richard was called to heaven on August 25, 2012. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, sister Gloria and his brothers Jim and Tom. He is survived by his son Philip (Mary), siblings Sandy (Marlin) and John (Jane), four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
CONTENTMENT
By Richard G. Schroeder
He just showed up one day,
A well-groomed man.
Gray haired and well-trimmed beard,
A deeply tanned ruddy complexion,
Complete with tattoos of a sea-going man.
A happy itinerant wanderer,
Living the life he loved,
Loving the life he chose.
Traveling life’s lonesome roads,
A man content with solitude.
He’d done it his way, no regrets,
Now he’s content to let time slip away,
Sitting at the beach looking out to sea,
With the far-away look in his eyes,
That happy wanderers have
Reminiscing of faraway places.
A contented free-spirited individual,
Just a vagabond, an old veteran,
Content with hanging out at the beach.
Enjoying the warmth of the tropical island,
He’s happy to be home.
VAMC – Seattle, WA
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