Raymond G. Schroeder

Raymond G. "Jack" Schroeder, age 81, of West, passed away Tuesday afternoon, May 2, 2006 at Providence Health Center in Waco. A Rosary will be recited and Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 9:30 a.m. Saturday at St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption, with Rev. Ed Karasek as celebrant. Military Graveside Rites will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery conducted by West V.F.W. Post No. 4819. The family will receive visitors from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Mr. Schroeder was born June 30, 1924 in Riesel, the son of Henry and Lydia (Lehrmann) Schroeder. He attended schools in Riesel and Otto. Jack served his country with the United States Army during World War II. On February 3, 1948 he married Tracie Kocian. She preceded him in death on April 26, 1992. On October 15, 1994 he then married Mary Ruth (King) Dudik in West. Jack worked for the T & A. Tea Company in Waco for 20 years and for Nemecek Brothers Meat Market for another 20 years before retiring in 1992. During his retirement he worked for several places including the West City Hall, West Community Center, St. Mary's School, and St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption. He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption where he served as an usher. He was also active in many local organizations including, the West V.F.W. Post No. 4819, American Legion Post No. 478, Knights of Columbus Council No. 2305, K.J.T. Society No. 31, and the R.V.O.S. Lodge in Cottonwood. Jack will be remembered by many as being the longtime coach of the KC boy's baseball team in the 1960's and 70's. He loved children and especially his grandchildren, and always loved visiting with friends. Mr. Schroeder was also preceded in death by a brother, Ervin Schroeder; and two sisters, Hertha Ingold and Della Reznicek. Survivors include his wife, Mary Ruth Schroeder of West; three sons, David Schroeder of Waco, Johnny Schroeder and his wife Susan of Albuquerque, NM, and Raymond Gene Schroeder and his wife Ruth of Corpus Christi; six step sons, Steve Dudik, Vince Dudik, Edward Dudik III, Terrence "Tabo" Dudik, Joey Dudik, and Kevin Dudik; a step daughter, Beverly Sterling; a brother, Gilbert Schroeder; three sisters, Ruby Kocian, Evelyn Hruska and Esther Perry; 7 grandchildren; 12 step grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.