Melanie J. Schroeder, 82, of Mendota, Illinois, died April 24, 2024, peacefully in her sleep after a long fight with Parkinson's, at The Meadows of Fall River, Wisconsin.

Beloved wife of David, Mother of Matthew (Jennifer) Schroeder and Roberta (Scott) Ahlberg, Grandmother of Joshua, Molly, and Joseph Schroeder, and Jacob and Samuel Ahlberg, Great-Grandmother of Little Winnie and Baby Hazel. Dear sister of Pam (David Feela) Reckwerdt, Sue (Glenn) Busse, and Paul (Ellen Rosner) Reckwerdt. Fun-loving Aunt of numerous nieces and nephews.

Born March 31, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, Melanie was the first of four children of Leonard and Lucille (Hein) Reckwerdt. The family moved to Arlington Heights when Melanie was young in order to improve her health with fresh country air.

She attended Arlington Heights High School where she sang in the choir. In her teens she worked at Danegger's Bakery, where she was an extremely valued employee of the family-run business. While attending college at Northern Illinois, she met David, the love of her life, and they were married in 1963. That same year, they moved to Mendota and after graduation Melanie was hired at Lincoln School in Mendota. She quit teaching while her children were young and started a wallpapering business with her friends. She went back to teaching in 1979 and taught 4th grade until she retired in 2002. Melanie was an active member of St. John's Lutheran Church teaching Sunday School and Bible School, and singing with the Singing Mothers and in the church choir. After retiring, she enjoyed attending her book club, meeting with her Rebecca Circle at St. John's, traveling the world with David and their friends, and seeing her grandchildren's music and sporting events. Melanie was a teacher in all aspects of her life and loved spreading joy to all those around her. She always found music in everything she did and brought a positive perspective to life. Melanie maintained a light-hearted nature and knew how to make those around her smile and laugh. Melanie found joy in her garden and had an extensive knowledge of plants that she loved to share. A friend to many, Melanie was known for her compassion and willingness to listen.

She will be dearly remembered by her loved ones for the joy she brought into their lives.

Melanie was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and her infant son, Michael.

Memorials may be directed to the family for a donation to the University of Illinois - Chicago Children's Hospital in memory of Melanie and her son Michael. Online condolences may be left at www.merrittfh.com

Visitation will be held Wednesday, May 8, 2024, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at St. John's Lutheran Church, Mendota, with services following at 11:30 a.m. Merritt Funeral Home, Mendota is assisting the family.