Carl F. Schroeder

Carl “Schmida” F. Schroeder, 89

Lemont, IL – Carl "Schmida" F. Schroeder, a man whose presence was characterized by his warmth, easy humor, and endearing habit of "saying it like it was," passed away peacefully at the age of 89 on November 23, 2025. A lifelong resident of Lemont, Carl’s profound loyalty to his family, his smile, and his consistent desire for being the first to arrive at a party and the last one to leave will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.

Above all else, Carl cherished his family, especially his late wife, Nadine. Their enduring partnership was the foundation of his life. Known affectionately to all as “Boppie,” nothing brought him greater joy than his role as a grandfather. He loved his family fiercely, and his presence was the anchor of countless family gatherings and cherished memories.

Carl proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy. His service took him across the globe, earning him the distinguished title of Shellback after crossing the equator.

Following his military service, Carl returned to the town he loved, Lemont, making his home in the same beloved neighborhood for 60 years. It was here, on his deck, that he perfected the art of enjoying life's simple pleasures: drinking a good cocktail, and, perhaps most uniquely, loving a good thunderstorm from the safe haven of his garage next to his pride and joy (his car). 

Carl worked most of his life at the CECO steel mill in Lemont. Carl also found happiness in his work as the custodian at St. Alphonsus School. He didn't just sweep floors; he cherished the children, took immense pride in his faith, and was always ready to share his straightforward advice.

The water was a constant source of pleasure for Carl. He spent many joyful hours boating and socializing with friends and family in Seneca, particularly around the familiar camaraderie of "B dock." He was also a fixture at “The Club” for competitive Euchre Nights.

In later years, Carl and his wife enjoyed their cherished annual tradition of being "Snowbirds," escaping the Illinois cold to spend time together in Florida. Upon returning to Lemont, his weekly routine included Sunday mornings starting with Mass at St. Patrick’s Church followed by breakfast at Georges, his near-daily trip to the grocery store, and ending the day with his favorite Western shows.

And, of course, no mention of Carl would be complete without acknowledging his lifelong dedication to Chicago sports, topped by his enduring loyalty to the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears.

Carl "Schmida" Schroeder’s legacy is not just one of service and community, but one of boundless, vibrant love. He taught those around him the importance of showing up, staying late, and cherishing every moment—especially those spent fiercely loving your family.

Carl “Schmida” F. Schroeder, age 89, of Lemont, passed away peacefully November 23, 2025. Preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Dora Schroeder, his brother Harold Schroeder and his beloved wife of 56 years, Nadine Schroeder.   

Carl is survived by his children, Nena (James) Bussey, Natalee Quinn, Corey (late Kerri) Schroeder, and Nanette (Rick) Schroeder; his adored grandchildren Caitlyn Sarna, Brittney (Kyle) Cavanaugh, Kealy Schroeder, Gavin Quinn, Kelsey(Tom) Szafranski, Carlie (Brandon) Campillo, Tyrone Quinn, Morgan Bussey, Alexie (Tommy) Paterson, Ellis Quinn, and Ella Quinn; nine great-grandchildren, Harper, Max, Owen, Callum, Teddy, Nora, Reed, Lorraine, and Brody; numerous nieces and nephews; and many dear friends whom he cherished. 

Visitation will be held Monday, December 1, 2025, from 4 – 8 p.m. at Markiewicz Funeral Home, P.C. 108 Illinois Street, Lemont. Family and friends will meet for a Funeral Mass on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church 200 E Illinois Street, Lemont. Interment will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery. 

Carl Frederick Schroeder's memorial page - Honor Veterans Legacies at VLM www.vlm.cem.va.gov/CARLFREDERICKSCHROEDER/ab267c