Fred R. “Ross” Schroder, age 70, of Merrill, passed away Tuesday, May 28, 2013 at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.
He was born March 8, 1943 in Rockford, IL to the late Fred H. & Bernice (Glawe) Schroder. On April 4, 1970 he and Norma Kretschmer were united in marriage in Chicago, a union lasting over 43 years. She survives.
Ross was a graduate of Winnebago High School in Illinois. He had served in the Army Reserves. Ross had worked over 25 years at Semling-Menke Company where he made steel doors and worked as a saw operator. He also farmed dairy and beef cattle over 20 years. Although Ross kept himself busy with work, his family was his life and he enjoyed helping them whenever they needed. He was obsessed with hunting, enjoyed taking care of his lawn, gardening, and was an animal lover. Ross liked doing carpentry work which showed in the many houses and garages he built. He was a member of Christ United Methodist Church and the Local Carpenters Union. He loved to watch Wheel of Fortune.
Survivors include his wife: Norma, of Merrill; five children: Jodi Sutherland, Rockford, IL; Jeffrey (Colleen Kruse) Schroder, Rockford, IL; Brian (Tracey) Schroder, Merrill; Dawn (Gonzalo Sanchez Silvela) Schroder-Silvela, Merrill; and Paulette Doering, Merrill; six grandchildren: Jenny, Jessy, Stephanie, Megan, Beatriz, Cristina, Chrissy and Nicole; three great-grandchildren: Timothy, Eleanor and Cordelia; one brother: Roger (Pat) Schroder, Winnebago, IL; one sister: Evelyn Thompson, AR; and his best buddy, Lucky. He was preceded in death by his parents and his mother and father-in-law, Oren & Elthera Kretschmer.
Funeral services will be held at 11 AM Friday, May 31, 2013 at Christ United Methodist Church. The Rev. Don Entenman will officiate. Visitation will be from 4-7 PM Thursday, May 30, 2013 at Waid Funeral Home and again from 10-11 AM Friday before the service at the church. Burial will follow in Snow Hill Cemetery. Donations may be given in Ross’ name to the Lincoln County Humane Society. Waid Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.