Walter Joseph Schroeder Jr., affectionately known as “Sonny” to his friends and family, died peacefully at his North Riverside home on June 22, 2025, surrounded by the enduring love of those closest to him. Born on March 2, 1959, he was an enthusiastic participant in several fantasy football leagues, where he shared laughter and camaraderie with friends and family. Before becoming a father, he also enjoyed performing as a bassist and vocalist in a band with close friends.
Sonny is survived by his wife, Jennifer (nee Lorentz) Schroeder; his son, Nick Schroeder; his daughter, Claire Schroeder; his mother-in-law Alice (nee Svoboda) Lorentz; his sister Jean (late Jack) O’Connell; his brothers-in-law Jozsef Rosko and Chris Lorentz; his nieces and nephews, Cara Melbou, Brian (Kate) Gregg, Chuck (Karrie) Hickey, De-De (Clarence) Woodard, Jenny Downing, Crystal (Travis) Throgmartin, and Marie (Dale) Krygoski; and his great-nieces and -nephews, Massy Melbou, Youba Melbou, Ashli (Chad) Cooper, Theodore Cooper, Allexys Woodard and Everly Gregg. He was a pet parent to many animals, especially his dogs.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Joseph Schroeder Sr. and Dolores (nee Prince) Schroeder; his sisters, Linda Schroeder and Kathy Schroeder; and sister-in-law Laura (nee Lorentz) Rosko.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Brookfield Zoo in support of the new Tropical Forest exhibit, honoring Sonny’s lifelong fascination with primates and love for animals.
For those who wish to create a living tribute, the family also welcomes the contribution of plants suitable for a memorial planter that can be placed in his honor. Alternatively, you may choose to dedicate a tree in Sonny’s memory, a lasting symbol of his life, love, and the joy he brought to others.
Memorial visitation was held on June 28 at Johnson-Nosek Funeral Home. Online condolences, photos and memories may be offered to the family at www.JohnsonNosek.com.