Lila Schroeder

Lila Lee (Mohr) Schroeder was born on September 12, 1929, to parents Lillian (Dethlefs) and Henry Mohr. She grew up alongside her siblings: Marilyn Whited, Wade Mohr, Marjorie Whited, and Iva Hinze. Lila proudly called Manning her home throughout her life. She attended school in Manning and graduated with the Class of 1947. In 1948, she married Wayne Schroeder, and together they were blessed with three daughters: Linda, Susan, and Debra.

Lila wore many hats throughout her lifetime. Her primary role was as Chief Financial Officer for Schroeder Trucking, a position she held for over 30 years. Over the years, she also worked at the local dime store, the hospital, Garst and Thomas as a corn detasseling supervisor, and J & S Feed Service as a bookkeeper.

Lila’s strong work ethic was matched only by her deep dedication to her community. Volunteering was her true passion, and she devoted countless hours to causes dear to her heart. She was recognized for her efforts with two Governor’s Awards for Volunteerism for her work with the V.F.W. and American Legion Auxiliaries. Her commitment to baking pies for the American Legion pie stand every summer will remain a cherished memory for many.

A faithful member of the Presbyterian Church, Lila held many leadership roles there. She was a lifetime member of both the V.F.W. and American Legion Auxiliaries, where she served as 8th District President and held numerous other offices. Lila was also a lifetime member of the Hayes Township Schuetzen Verein and the Manning Hausbarn Heritage Park. She chaired the Community Chest Drive for many years and contributed her time to events like Weihnachtsfest.

Lila loved to travel and treasured her trips with family to destinations such as England, the Panama Canal, New York, and Alaska. However, her greatest joy in life was her family. She adored attending her children’s and grandchildren’s activities and took immense pride in their achievements. Lila lived a full and wonderful life, and her family was truly blessed to share in her 95 years.

For the past eight years, Lila has called Manning Senior Living her home, cherishing the friendships she formed, the family she gained, and the activities they shared together.

On Monday, December 16, 2024, Lila passed away at the Manning Regional Healthcare Center after a short illness, having attained the age of 95 years, three months, and four days. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Wayne in 2005, after 56 years of marriage; her siblings and their spouses: Marilyn (Roy), Marjorie (John), and Wade “Bud” (Thelma); and brother-in-law, Orville Hinze.

Lila is survived by her three daughters and their spouses: Linda (Gary) Anderson of Ottumwa, IA, Susan (Larry) Stangl of Manning, IA, and Debra (Daniel) Weis of Winona, MN. She is also survived by her nine grandchildren, their spouses, 17 great-grandchildren, three step-great-grandchildren, and her younger sister, Iva Hinze of Carroll.

Visitation with family greeting friends will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Ohde Funeral Home in Manning. A Celebration of Life service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 21, 2024, also at the funeral home. Burial will follow at the Manning Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family to support organizations that were meaningful to Lila.