Edward J. "Ed" Schroeder

1945 - 2025

Janesville/ Milton, WI - Edward J. Schroeder "Ed", passed away peacefully at his Janesville home on Friday, Dec. 19, 2025. Ed was born on November 29, 1945, in Milwaukee, WI, to Libby E. (Marek) and Waldemar Schroeder. Ed graduated from Washington High School in Milwaukee and then attended UW-Madison, focusing on history, political science, and education, receiving his bachelor's degree in 1969 and master's degree in 1977. He taught middle school and high school in the Janesville School District for over 34 years, mostly at Parker High School, and did substitute teaching for many years afterward. Although he never had children of his own, Ed loved kids and considered his students as family.

As a teacher, Ed brought history to life. His remarkable memory allowed him to share details of events, iconic figures, and dates in history. Ed's passion for history and our nation continued throughout his life, and he often could be found watching or reading the news, commenting on the day's events with his wry sense of humor and keen insights.

Ed enjoyed spending time in Canada, fishing and boating. He remained very proud of his Canadian heritage and often talked about his adventures on the Rainy River and in Winnipeg. Ed also enjoyed model railroading and summer rides around town in his baby-blue 2002 Ford Thunderbird convertible. On Saturdays and Sundays, Ed could be found sitting in his favorite chair, cheering on the Badgers and Packers. Over the past few years, Ed's American Eskimo dog-Betty White-was his constant companion, never leaving his side.

Survivors include his wife of twenty-eight years, Carol; aunt, Mildred Mann; first cousins: Barbara Rehn, Tim (Leah) Schroeder, Karen (Dale) Visgar, Monica (Paul) Keddy; step mother-in-law, Judy Bergmann; stepson, Ethan (Margaret) Adams; sister-in-law, Lawren Kunz; nieces: Kristin (Adam) Schinke, Karin (Ben) Conklin, Katie (Matt) Fernholz; and his Portuguese-German family: Paula Matos, Thorsten Tibke, and Marit Matos-Tibke. He is also survived by many, many friends, including his life-long friend, Ronald Kruger; and Chinese international students who lived with Carol and Ed: Tim, Skyler, Ronaldo, Jenny, and Michelle.

Special thanks to Amanda Greene, APNP-CN; Gabriel D. Johnson, DO; and SSM Home Health Care for their compassion and kindness.

Memorials may be made to SSM Health St. Mary's Foundation, Janesville; the U.W.-Madison History and Political Science Departments; or to a charity of one's choice.

A private memorial gathering will be held in the future. Apfel-Ehlert Funeral Home, Edgerton, is assisting the family. Please share your condolences or memories of Ed online at https://www.apfelfuneral.com