Jeffrey Schroeder

KALIDA - Jeffrey Richard Schroeder, 63, of Kalida, passed away at 11:59 a.m. on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at his residence.

He was born May 6, 1960, in Lima to Donald "Mike" and Marjorie (Fortman) Schroeder. His father preceded him in death and his mother survives in Kalida. On January 12, 1985, he married Diane J. Averesch, who survives in Kalida.

Jeff is also survived by three children: Katrina "Katie' (Matt) Walker of Glandorf, Brianna (Eric) Rau of Kalida and Jennifer "Jenna" (Stephen) Ragland of Grove City; eight grandchildren: Lyla and Burke Walker, Jude, Elliette, Waylon and Alexander Rau, Cassian and Lincoln Ragland; two brothers: David (Rita) Schroeder and Ron (Jackie) Schroeder, both of Kalida; in-laws: Marlene (Phil) Griffith, Lynda (Glen) Fortman, Kathy Vorst, Lisa (Dirk) Rummel, Michele (Dean) Niese, Deb (Jeff) Sheaks and Eric (Brenda) Averesch; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his father, he was also preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law: Bernard and Mary Jane Averesch; and a brother-in-law, Gerry Vorst.

Jeff was a retired electrician/maintenance worker for Unverferth Manufacturing, Kalida and a lifelong farmer. He was an avid OSU Buckeye fan and was a great story and joke teller. Jeff loved the outdoors, especially bird and animal watching. Gardening was one of his favorite hobbies, as he enjoyed cooking and canning the fruits of his labor. Above all, Jeff loved spending time with his friends and family, especially playing cards with his grandkids and attending their many activities.

Funeral Mass will begin 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at St. Michael Catholic Church, Kalida with Fr. Nathan Bockrath officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Visitation will be held from 2 to 8 p.m. on Monday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township and 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday at the church. A scripture service will begin at 1:45 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to Kalida Four Seasons Park or Kalida St. Michael Catholic Church, Building Fund for the Main Entrance Project. Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com.