Orrin Schroeder

As family and friends will certainly attest, Orrin Schroeder truly understood the secret to a life well lived, filling each moment with zeal and laughter. Known for his strength and grit, he faced every challenge that came his way with fierce determination. There was nothing that made Orrin happier than spending time with his family, and he deeply savored every chance to hold his loved ones close. His sense of humor was sharp and witty, and he brightened the lives of all those near in ways big and small. Already so greatly missed, Orrin will be forever loved and remembered.

The late 1940s are remembered as years of healing all around the world. Following the end of WWII in 1945, the economy was thriving here in the United States, and the historic baby boom was underway. In the world of pop culture, iconic films such as Miracle on 34th Street were wildly popular. Jackie Robinson stepped up to the plate to play for the Brooklyn Dodgers, shattering historical limits just as the first televised World Series game was played. It was during this exciting time that Roger & Vivian (Giddings) Schroeder of Kalamazoo, Michigan, were happy to announce the arrival of their infant son. Born on May 17 of 1947, Orrin joined his half-brother, Ken Welch, in the family.

Growing up, Orrin was a typical young man of his generation in many ways. He attended local schools, including Portage Northern High School. Orrin’s graduating class of 1965 had the honor of choosing the school’s mascot and fight song! While finishing high school, he was also in the United States Navy Reserves. Just nine days after celebrating his graduation, Orrin was sent to serve his country overseas in Vietnam.

All who knew Orrin would surely agree that his family was undoubtedly his greatest treasure in life. In 1980, Orrin was fortunate to once again find love with Karen Flipse Lambert, the woman who quickly captured his heart. The two first met at a bowling alley, introduced by a mutual friend. Not many can say they truly experienced love at first sight, but Orrin and Karen were immediately head over heels in love. They didn’t need long to know that they wanted to spend the rest of their lives together. The happy couple were united in marriage just seven months later at Second Reformed Church, beginning 45 wonderful years as husband and wife.

Orrin’s family grew to include his son, Erric, and step-children, Robert, Rick, and Kathi. He loved them all more than anything in the world, and they were his greatest source of pride and joy. The family enjoyed camping and golfing together. A particularly special memory was their 1984 trip out West. When Kathi married Grant Martin, giving Orrin a son-in-law, Orrin welcomed him into the family with open arms. Orrin and Grant often played golf together. They even tried their hand at ice fishing, though Grant and Kathi’s dog, Riley, managed to get away with their first catch. Orrin’s dog, Bandit, was also considered to be a part of the family. Bandit was Orrin’s faithful companion, and they loved eating M&Ms together.

Never one to shy away from hard work, Orrin’s career began working at a paper mill. He eventually left that position to work with Karen at her painting business, Lambert Painting, which was renamed to Schroeder Painting. After retiring from there, Orrin went on to become the “superintendent” at Crestview. He could often be found mowing the Crestview green. To accommodate after the loss of his leg, they even modified the tractor so he could operate it with his hands.

In his free time, Orrin loved getting out on his boat, aptly named Too Much Fun, in South Haven. He and Karen also enjoyed many motorcycle trips back and forth to Tennessee. For 20 years, Orrin’s Monday nights were reserved for playing cards with his poker group, Larry, Wayne, Mike, Dan, Lynn, and Rob. He was famous for his love of chicken wings and Dr. Pepper, though water was his recent drink of choice. Orrin stayed active by bowling and playing golf at Crestview. His favorite music included the works of Journey and the good Oldies from his earlier years. More than anything, Orrin enjoyed spending his time in the company of those he loved.

When looking back on the overflowing life of Orrin Schroeder, it is easy to see both his unwavering integrity and his unconditional love for his friends and family. He served as a powerful role model of hard work and kindness for all those who looked up to him. A devoted husband and father, Orrin led his family with strength and wisdom. The simple joys in life brought him deep contentment, and his dedication to bringing happiness and laughter to others will not soon be forgotten. Forever loved, Orrin’s legacy will be carried on for many years to come.

Orrin Schroeder, age 78, died unexpectedly on May 5, 2026. He was born on May 17, 1947, in Kalamazoo to Roger & Vivian (Giddings) Schroeder. He was preceded in death by parents; brother: Ken Welch; daughter: Ronetta; and stepson: Rick Lambert. Surviving are his wife: Karen, his son: Erric (Missy) Schroeder, stepson: Robert (Patti) Lambert, stepdaughter: Kathi (Grant) Martin; grandchildren: Kasey (Dion) Kidder, Collin Martin, Taylor (Denver) Martin, Aricka (David) Dyer, Angelina Spohn, Roni Schroeder; many great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Please join us at a Life Story Visitation on Saturday May 9 from 11 AM – 1 PM at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900 where food, drinks, and stories can be shared. Burial at Fort Custer National Cemetery on Tuesday May 12 at 1:30 PM. Celebrate Orrin’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions may be made to Michigan Amputee Gold Association or Mary Free Bed.