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KEITH SCHROEDER

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Funeral mass for Keith Schroeder, 95, of Wagner, was held at the St. John’s Catholic Church in Wagner, Monday April 24. Peters Funeral Home of Wagner was in charge of arrangements.

Keith James “Sparky” Schroeder, 95, passed away Wednesday, April 19, 2023 at the Wagner Community Hospital. He was born to Clarence and Nellie (Riley) Schroeder on the family farm on February 5, 1928, the eldest of four children.

Keith graduated from Wagner High School in 1945, after which he enlisted in the Navy. He was appointed by Senator “Chan” Gurney to the Naval Preparatory Academy in Bainbridge, MD. Keith proudly served his country as a Seaman Apprentice. Upon returning to South Dakota Keith began his 40-year farming career with his father. Keith was so proud to say he began farming using horses and by the end of his career he drove a Case IH quad trac, his only complaint was the quad was not a John Deere green. Keith was a dedicated servant to God’s land and animals. After retiring from farming Keith worked for Haar Implement, Wagner Food Center, Ft. Randall Casino and Fischer Farms.

Keith was a lifelong member of St. John’s Catholic Church in Wagner, and spent many years teaching CCD. As a lifetime member of the VFW and American Legion, Keith embodied honor and service to his fellow service members. His advocacy was integral to bringing the VA clinic to Wagner. He was also a leader with the Lakeview Livestock 4-H Club for many years.

Keith was a man of unwavering faith; he was the rock and foundation of his family and showed us all how to face life’s challenges with a reverent heart. Keith never met a sweet he didn’t love! He so enjoyed a good game of cards, especially if it involved taking money from his grandkids. He was very proud of the Wagner community.

Keith married Shirley McGuire in April 1946 and to their union six children were born: Kathy Wenn (John)-Apple Valley MN, Patty Markley (Earl)-Tea, Peggy Nedved (Larry)-Wagner and Chelle Muilenburg (Craig)-Groton. He married Diana (Bastemeyer) Robertson in January 1973 and four children were born to their union: Chad (LaMay)-Sioux Falls, Beth (Val)-Nashville TN, Jamie (Barb)-Sioux Falls, and Sara-Doon Iowa. He married Mardell (Honke) Schroeder in June 1991 and from that marriage he gained three stepchildren: Cyndi Uesele (Sam)-Phoenix AZ, Suzie Johnson (Milton)-Pitkin LA, and Mike Schroeder (Jan)-Austin TX. Keith is also survived by 18 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, seven step grandchildren, 1 step great grandchild, sister-in-law Florence McGuire and many beloved nieces and nephews.

There was nothing brighter than the twinkle in Keith’s eyes when his home was bursting at the seams with his beloved children and grandchildren.

Preceding him in death were his parents, wife Shirley, sister and brother-in-law, Robert and LaDonna Seiner, brothers Newell and Noel Schroeder and children Debra McGee and Kurt Schroeder.

Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!