J A. Schroder

J A. Schroder, 70, formerly of New London, IA, died Monday, December 31, 2012, at the LaMasa Care Center in Yuma, AZ. Visitation will begin after 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 10, 2013, at the Olson-Powell Memorial Chapel. A Masonic Service will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. that morning at the Memorial Chapel. The funeral service will follow the Masonic Service with Pastor Jeff McPheron officiating. Burial will be in the Burge Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established to New London Masonic Lodge #28 and Hospice of Yuma. Born November 10, 1942, in Burlington, IA, J Anthony was the son of Jack and Esther (Senn) Schroder. J was a lifelong resident of Iowa. He was a 1961 graduate of New London High School. He then earned his Associate's Degree in Architectural Drafting at Southeastern Community College. On June 5, 1987, he married Connie Williams at the New London United Methodist Church. The couple moved to Yuma, AZ in February 2008. Always a hard worker, J began working for his father at Schroder Construction. He retired from J.I. Case after 30 years working as a welder. As a sideline business, he owned and operated Schroder Trees where he planted trees in parks and for individuals. During the 60's-80's he raised Christmas Trees. J loved to ride his Gold Wing motorcycle and was a club member of Gold Wings. He enjoyed collecting antiques, especially teapots. Other hobbies include making woodworking gifts for his grandchildren, visiting with friends, and playing cards and dominos. An avid supporter of the Dover Museum, J was, also, a member of the New London United Methodist Church and the New London Masonic Lodge #28. Survivors include his wife of 25 years, Connie Schroder of Yuma, AZ; his mother, Esther Schroder of New London, IA; five daughters, Michelle (Greg) Lerdal, Kelly (Kurt) Hobson all of New London, Penny (Mike) Anding of Washington, IA, JAnna (David) Birch of New London, and Jennifer (Jeff) Krieger of Mt. Pleasant; three sisters, Koral (Guy) Fuson of New London, Jeri (Billy) Willingham of Kansas City, MO, and Chris (Jordan) Olson of New London; 18 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Preceding J in death were his father; a sister, Janene Luke; and a daughter, Lori Peterson.