Dr. Richard A. Schroeder

Dr. Richard A. Schroeder of Asheville, passed away at 11:06 AM on the 16th of December, 2024, at the age of 87.

Dr. Schroeder was born January 25, 1937, in East Chicago, IN to Heinrich Schroeder and Effie MacKeigan Schroeder. He graduated from High School in Gary, IN and from the University of Indiana, Bloomington, with a bachelor’s and Master’s in English and German, and a doctorate in Comparative Literature. He was certified in ESL from Monterey Institute, and received training at various educational institutions throughout the world in such countries as France, Germany, Italy, Iceland, Russia, and Brazil.

In his early years he was in the merchant marine working for Inland Steel. Beginning in 1970, and for 30 years he was Professor of English and Comparative Literature, and ESL at Thiel College, and lived in Hermitage, PA. He also taught English, Literature, and ESL at a number of universities around the world as a guest Professor in the countries of Germany, Iceland, Poland, Estonia, Slovenia, Brazil, Cayman Islands as well as Alaska and Michigan.

Dr. Schroeder traveled extensively and believed in becoming emersed in the cultures of other countries to best appreciate them, and was an excellent ambassador for us where ever he traveled. He encouraged travel and overseas education among his students. Dr. Schroeder was known for his command of the German language and knowledge of European Literature.

He was a member of St. Peter and Paul Lutheran Church and attended many churches throughout the world. Dr. Schroeder later retired in Grand Rapids, MI where he enjoyed bicycling and skiing, then to Asheville, NC.

He is survived by his wife, Judy Schroeder; his brother’s wife, Nowana Schroeder; two nephews, Jon Schroeder, and David Schroeder, and their families; brother-in-law, Richard Falk and sister-in law, Roberta Takacs and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Henry Schroeder.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, P.O. Box 4777, New York, NY 10163-4777.

Dr. Schroeder will lie in repose for family and friends on Friday, December 20th at Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm with a brief committal service conducted by Rev. Kelli Mullinix. He will lie in repose the following day on Saturday as well from 9:00 am to 11:00 am for anyone who can’t make Friday.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 1:00 PM at the Givens Estates Pulliam Chapel.

A private burial will be held at Concordia Cemetery in Hammond, IN.