John SCHROEDER

October 22, 1922 - Dec. 21, 2022

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John Schroeder, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday with his family. Dear father of Carol Schnarr (Greg), grandfather of Melanie Walker (Tye), Laura Hamulecki (Steve), Andrew Schnarr (Cait), Katie Lloyd, and Daniel Schnarr (Megan), and great grandfather to Layna, Sierra, James, Connor, and another on the way. Predeceased by his wife Judith, daughter Susan Schroeder-Lloyd, and granddaughter Amanda Lloyd. After losing his father and five siblings during the war, John (of Dutch descent) immigrated from Germany to Canada to start a new life. His bride, Judith, from Austria, joined him a year later. He quickly built a successful bricklaying business in St. Catherines. At the age of 35, he followed his dream of a higher education at McMaster University, while supporting his wife and two daughters by continuing to manage his business. He went on to become a Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Waterloo, along with a doctorate in Philosophy. A specialist in molded concrete vessels, he worked closely as a consultant with the Chalk River Nuclear Power Plant near Ottawa, and also travelled to the United States and Europe to consult there as well. Never one to give up on his dreams, and a nature lover at heart, he bought a country property at the age of 74, designed his own cabin, and proceeded to plant 100 trees by hand. A prolific writer and reader throughout his life, he was continuing to write his life story almost to the end. We had many interesting conversations about family, which was always foremost on his mind, current events, and his most favorite topic, philosophy. Our deepest thanks to Dr. Carothers and the exceptionally caring staff at Chartwell Westmount Long Term Care Facility, especially during his final days. As per John's request, cremation has taken place and a private family celebration of his life will take place after the holidays. In lieu of flowers, donations to either the Heart & Stroke Fund, or the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated.