It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Don Schroeder, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, educator, and esteemed community member. Don peacefully departed this world on Monday, November 3, 2025, at the age of 89.
Born on Friday, August 21, 1936, in Breese, Illinois, the son of Wallace Schroeder and Susie (Nave) Schroeder, Don’s life was a harmonious blend of family, music, and community service. Don married Shirley Weihe on August 17, 1958, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Carlyle. They built a life centered around love and mutual respect. Together, they raised three devoted children: Mike Schroeder, Steve Schroeder, and Cynthia Schroeder, who, along with their families, were a constant source of joy and pride for Don. His legacy also includes several cherished grandchildren who will carry forward his memory and values.
Don dedicated his professional life to inspiring young minds through music. His career as a Band Director spanned several esteemed institutions, including Okawville, McLeansboro, Centralia Junior High, and Kaskaskia College, and he also served as an Orchestra Director. Known for his passion for music and his dedication to his students, Don helped ignite the spark of musicality in countless young hearts, profoundly impacting the community’s cultural tapestry.
Aside from his professional accomplishments, Don was an enthusiastic chess player, known to engage in spirited matches both at home and within the community. His love for the game of golf was equally passionate; he delighted friends and family with stories of the day he hit a spectacular hole-in-one. As the owner and operator of the Melody Shop in both Centralia and Mount Vernon, he provided his communities with much more than musical instruments and lessons—he offered a gathering place for lovers of music and a hub for cultural enrichment.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 10, 2025, at 1:00 PM at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Centralia, Illinois, with Pastor James Hennig officiating. Following the service, Don will be laid to rest at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Centralia, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, Don’s family kindly requests that donations be made to Christ Our Rock Lutheran High School, and will be accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home located at 235 North Sycamore Street, Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618)532-3523, who is honored to be of service to Don’s Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home Facebook page.
