James Michael Schroeder

James’ life began on January 3, 1951, in Newton. He was the son of Earl Ray and Racine Dorothy (Smith) Schroeder. His mother passed away when he was five days old and later his father married Esther Schroeder who raised him and his siblings. James was united in marriage to Julene “Jo’ Unruh on May 12, 1980, in Wichita. He was a truck driver most of his working life; he also worked for Ag Services, and the area Co-Op. James liked mechanical work and worked on a race car that raced at 81 Speedway. He encouraged his daughter with her 4-H cattle projects and enjoyed watching her show cattle and participate in various other activities. The family also enjoyed traveling, taking several vacations together. He is survived by his wife Jo Schroeder of Whitewater; his mother Esther Schroeder of Newton; step-son Scott (Brandi Smith) Sweasy of Newton and daughter Amanda (Ben) Rettele of Sabetha; grandchildren Avery Rettele, Layton Rettele, Jase Sweasy, Ryann Sweasy, and Harlen Rettele; his siblings Kenneth (Peg) Schroeder of Hesston, and Darrell (Venita) Schroeder of Goessel and several nieces and nephews. James passed away on November 29, 2025, at St. Francis Hospital in Wichita. He is preceded in death by his birth mother and father and son Adam. His family will gather with friends on Saturday December 13, 2025, from 5-7 p.m. at Lamb Funeral Home in Whitewater for his Celebration of Life. He will be laid to rest in Swiss Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions in James’ name may be directed to Grace Hill Mennonite Church. Please sign his online guestbook and leave a memory of James at www.yazelmeglifh.com.