Vern Schroeder

Vern Schroeder

Vern Schroeder, born November 1, 1917 in Drake, Saskatchewan, Canada, passed away August 28, 2009 at Warm Beach Retirement Center, Stanwood, WA, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was a former resident of Seattle, WA.
He is survived by his wife, Marjorie, of 65 years; son, Donald (Gail) Schroeder; daughter Kathryn (Ron) Larson, and daughter, Lois (Rob) Arnold; grandchildren, Jason Larson, Rachael Larson, Heather Larson, Shawn Larson, Peter Larson, Matthew Arnold, Todd Arnold and Jacob Schroeder; great grandchildren, Mariah Larson, Nathan Larson, Daniel Clarke, Peyton Clarke, Allison Clarke, Jaxon Larson and Kooper Larson.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Jacob F. and Anna Schroeder; two brothers, Cornelius, in infancy, and Jacob; twin sister, Verna Loewen; and two nieces, Janlee Blosser and Velma Loewen.
When Vern was one year of age, his father passed away and his mother moved the family to Mt. Lake, MN. where he grew up. Later, while attending Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, IL, he received his summons into the service during WWII. Since he had registered as a conscientious objector due to his Mennonite beliefs, he made the decision to become an Army medic to enable him to be a witness to others. During his training in Denver CO he married Marjorie Bergman on April 9, 1944.
Vern was sent to take part in the heavy fighting to liberate the Philippines with 37th Division. During the last part of his tour of duty, he was asked to be the chaplain's assistant, stationed in Baguio. In February, 1946 he received his discharge and returned to MBI, graduating in August, 1949.
Vern was employed at the American Can Co. for several years, followed by almost 14 years with the Washington State Patrol and retiring from the Boeing Company after almost 20 years at age 70.
Thereafter he was always actively serving the Lord in many capacities in his church.
After retirement, his greatest pleasure was traveling with his wife in their camper around the U.S., Canada, and Alaska, also visiting many relatives and friends along the way.
But more than that, were times spent with his family whom he treasured. This included many family gatherings.
Vern Schroeder, Dad, Grandpa, Opa will be loved and greatly missed.
Please make memorials to Moody Bible Institute, Chicago, IL and Gideon Bible Society. Gravesite services were held at 3:00 p.m. on September 2, at Floral Hills in Lynnwood, WA.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on September 16, 2009, at Island Baptist Church, Camano Island, WA.