Lee Schroeder Obituary

Lee Richard Schroeder

Lee Richard Schroeder, a respected individual known for his contributions to the legal field and economic development, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, Feb. 18, 2024, at his Leipsic home.

Lee was born June 14, 1975. His life journey was marked by a deep commitment to selflessness and simplicity, traits that endeared him to many.

Lee will be deeply missed by his parents, Dan and Nancy Schroeder; maternal grandmother, Mary Ann Erhart; siblings, Susan (Bob) Kamphaus, Sharon (Scott) Siebeneck, Andy (Pam) Schroeder, Cindy (Steve) Maravich, Sarah (Doug) Pester, and Jenni (Scott) Hoffman; nieces and nephews, Lily (John) Ellerbrock, Morgan (Jay) Kamphaus, Hallie Kamphaus, Ryan Kamphaus, Daniel Siebeneck, Aaron Siebeneck, Samatha Siebeneck, David Siebeneck, Hannah Schroeder, Kylee Schroeder, Eli Maravich, Newell Maravich, Joe Pester, Emma Pester, Helen Pester, and Sophia Hoffman, all of whom he deeply loved as his own children; and aunts, uncles, and a wide circle of family and friends.

Lee's educational pursuits were commendable, having graduated as Salutatorian from Leipsic High School in 1993 while being involved in National Honor Society, Putnam County 4-H Leadership Club, Putnam County Junior Fair Board, and Spanish Club. Lee went to college at THE Ohio State University where he received his Bachelor's degree in political science in 1999. Lee then initially studied law at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. Lee eventually obtained his law degree from Ohio State University Moritz College of Law where Lee received his juris doctorate in 2002 and he was admitted to the bar Nov. 18, 2022.

Throughout his career, Lee wore many hats with distinction. Lee engaged in impactful internships at the U.S.D.A. Secretary of Agriculture in the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, before becoming an associate at various law firms. Lee's dedication led him to serve as Putnam County Economic Development Director and later Henry County Economic Development Director. Notably, in 2016, Lee founded his own law firm, Schroeder Law LLC in Columbus Grove, where Lee was able to do what he loved daily alongside law partner, Nichole Schafer, and while impacting the lives of thousands of families in Northwest Ohio and beyond.

A man of diverse talents and interests, Lee's involvement in agricultural activities across different countries showcased his global perspective. Lee's roots on a farm in Putnam County instilled in him a love for agriculture that remained a vital part of his identity.

Lee's proudest accomplishments included holding leadership positions within Ohio FFA (formerly known as Future Farmers of America) organization, where Lee was elected in the fall of 1994 as National Vice President of the FFA. Lee also held many other roles in the FFA organization including in 1992 when Lee was the District 4 Vice President of the Ohio FFA, and in high school when Lee held multiple local FFA offices. His passion for community service and youth development left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visitation to honor and celebrate Lee's life was 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, at Zachrich Funeral Home in Holgate. Additional visitation will be 2-8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Leipsic. Mass will be 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 22, 2024, at the church. Burial will follow at the church cemetery.

In conclusion, Lee Richard Schroeder's legacy shines bright through his professional achievements, unwavering dedication to community improvement, and the profound impact he had on those around him. May Lee's memory live on as a testament to a life well-lived.

Memorial contributions can be made to Schroeder Law attention "Don Barnhart Memorial Scholarship" or St. Mary's School.