Ernest W. Schroeder

Ernest "Ernie" William Schroeder was born on November 7, 1938, in Houston, Texas, the son of Ernest W. and Zelone (Kettler) Schroeder. He grew up in Houston and attended Lamar High School before entering the United States Coast Guard on May 21, 1956. While on active duty, he earned his GED, served aboard a 125-foot tender near Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, and attended electronics school in Groton, Connecticut, before being assigned to the tender Arica. When the Arica moved its homeport to Port Huron, Michigan, in 1958, Ernest’s life changed forever; there, in April 1958, he met Joan A. Westcott, the woman who would become his beloved wife and lifelong companion. After his honorable discharge, he worked in construction with Lindberg Excavating and then for Southeastern Michigan Gas as a pipefitter and welder, retiring after 30 years of service on December 31, 1993. Ernie passed away on March 17, 2026, at 2:20 p.m., after a short hospital stay, he was surrounded by his loving family. Ernie’s true passion, however, was farming. In 1970, he began farming, a labor of love that became the heart of his daily life and something he faithfully maintained alongside his full-time job. He moved to his home on the farm in 1971, building a life rooted in hard work, family, and the land he cherished. Whether tending crops, caring for animals, or working from sunup to sundown, Ernie found joy and purpose in his farm, which remains a lasting part of his legacy. He is survived by his loving wife, Joan, with whom he would have celebrated 66 years of marriage on April 23 of this year. Ernie and Joan were blessed with two sons, whom he loved deeply and of whom he was very proud: William “Bill” (Vicki) Schroeder, who reside on the family farm, and John (Terri) Schroeder, who live in Colorado Springs. Family meant everything to Ernie. He is survived by his beloved granddaughter, Kristina (Greg) Sharp, and their children, Gregory (18), Haley (17), Josephina (9), Duke (7), and Waylon (6) Sharp, who all lovingly referred to him as "Papa Ernie". He is also survived by his sister, Mary McClure, and her daughter, Donna Farmer and family, who live in Texas; and by his brother, Jerry Schroeder, and his daughters, Ashley Schroeder, who lives in Arizona, and Amber Schroeder and her family, who live in Texas. Ernie will be remembered for his faithful service to his country, his decades of dedicated work, his deep love of farming and the land, and his unwavering devotion to his family. His legacy lives on in the stories, values, and memories he leaves with all who knew and loved him. Upon his wishes, cremation has taken place, and no memorial is planned at this time. Memorial contributions can be made to The Burtchville Township Fire Department Arrangements in care of Jowett Funeral Home- Port Huron. Jowett Funeral Home is privileged to serve the Schroeder Family.

Ernest W. Schroeder

November 7, 1938 - March 17, 2026