Paul James Schroeder
Paul James Schroeder, age 89, of Papillion, passed away Monday, November 20, 2023.
Funeral services were held Monday, November 27, at Kahler Dolce Mortuary in Papillion.
The family asks that memorials be directed to the Masonic Eastern Star Children’s Home, Fremont. The family also wishes to express their profound appreciation for the care, kindness, and empathy from Papillion Manor and Suncrest Hospice.
Paul was born January 5, 1934, in Grand Island to parents Paul and Adah Schroeder. He grew up in Nebraska in Grand Island, Crete and Wayne, with a short stint in Lawton, Oklahoma. As a youth he especially enjoyed his time and activities as a Boy Scout.
He graduated from Wayne High School 1951 and Wayne State College in 1954 majoring in education. He later earned his master’s degree and administrative specialist degree from the University of Nebraska.
His career as an educator in Nebraska spanned forty-four years, serving as either a principal or superintendent at Craig, Geneva, Wood River, Aurora, and Papillion.
He enjoyed woodworking and reading and was always known as a person who could fix anything. Paul was a doting father and grandfather, teaching values by patient example. This is how he was known through all of his contacts with pupils and staff during all his years in education.
He was a member of the Masonic Shrine Organization serving in many leadership roles over the years. He served as president of the Papillion library board and also maintained memberships in the Rotary Club and Lions Club.
He was married on August 15, 1954, to Chere Houdersheldt. They loved to travel to many famous places all over the United States. They celebrated their 69th anniversary this year. Their family consisted of daughter Stephanie and son Scott of whom they were very proud. One of the highlights of his life was being named “Parents of the Year” at Morningside College where their son attended. Grandchildren Austin Schroeder, Jacob Schroeder, and Alex Beideck brought him much pleasure, as did great-grandson August Beideck and great-granddaughters Lalie Beideck and Riley Schroeder.
He is survived by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
His church affiliations were Methodist and Lutheran. All who knew Paul considered him a gentleman and a scholar.
He is preceded in death by wife, Chere, in September 2023; parents, Paul and Adah; in-laws, Glen and Olga Houdersheldt; sister, Mary Smith; brother-in-law, Monte Smith; brother-in-law, Glen Houdersheldt; and sister-in-law, Pam Houdersheldt.