Schroeder, W.G. "Wes" DVM Age 82 formerly of Loretto, MN passed away on January 27th, 2019. Born to W.G. "Buck" & Dorothy Schroeder of Bemidji, MN. Survived by sisters Sally Colindres, Nancy (John) Koonce, Joni (Tim) Jensen & brother Jerry (Diane); daughter Michele (Lehmbecker) & sons Wes Jr, Wade (Kathleen), Mark (Susan); grandchildren Sydney, Mackenzie, Kyle, Hollis, Jack, Adrienne & his 18 nieces & nephews. Preceded in death by parents & brother Thomas "Tom". Growing up on a farm near Bemidji. Wes was active in the Beltrami County 4-H Club. Upon graduation from Bemidji High School in 1954. Wes joined the US Army. Serving as a medic in the 82nd Airborne Division. During his active service he logged 30 parachute jumps. Wes continued to pursue his new passion for parachuting, working during the summers in college as a smokejumper for the U.S. Forest Service in McCall, ID. Wes graduated with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Degree from the University of Minnesota in 1964. Then started one of the first exclusive equine veterinary practices in the state in 1966 out of his home in Wayzata. In 1972 he was instrumental in cofounding & operating Minnesota Equine Associates in Maple Plain. He served the community as a dedicated equine veterinarian for nearly 48 years. During his long career, Wes was active in many national, state & local equine organizations & committees, including acting as president of the MN Veterinary Medical Association in 1979. In 1981, Wes was honored as Horseman of the Year by the MN Horse Council. His lifelong career reflected a dedication of time & energy to many equine issues. Those included Endurance & Competitive Trail riding in the upper midwest, mentoring equine veterinary students and teaching horse health management classes throughout the region. Wes likewise shared his love for the sport of hockey by coaching for 16 years in the Hopkins Youth Hockey Association. He was also active in his local DFL Party. Regarding his interests, Wes demonstrated both passion & commitment to excellence. In lieu of flowers, family suggests contributions to one of the following: Minnesota Horse Council Foundation or the Strike Zone "Striker" Memorial Equine Scholarship. makingagift.umn.edu/give/… A Memorial Open House will be held at the University of Minnesota Leatherdale Equine Center on Saturday, February 23rd, 2019 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Private interment ceremony Greenwood Cemetery Bemidji, MN.

Published on February 10, 2019