Joel "JD" Schrooeder

With heavy hearts we announce that Joel “ JD” Schroeder, 71, of Rochester, MN died following a short illness on Saturday (August 8, 2026) at Mayo Clinic Rochester – St. Marys Campus. He received his set of wings and now can soar anywhere he wants.

Joel David Schroeder was born on June 4, 1955 in Ramsey County, St Paul, MN and adopted by his loving parents, Alfred and Dolores (Meyer) Schroeder. He grew up in Wykoff, MN and attended Wykoff schools; St John’s Parochial School and Wykoff Public School, graduating in 1973. He was in the Drama Club, was a photographer, he lettered as a basketball manager and received a certificate of achievement in practical sales work and outstanding ability in salesmanship and business proficiency. Makes sense as to why he ran such an amazing, successful business, JD Coins. He attended RCTC from 1977-1978.

Joel suffered injuries in an auto accident at the age of 18 that left him a quadrapelegic. He never let that accident or those physical limitations define him. He was always up to any challenge and was always ready to have fun! Work hard, play hard! He was married to Mary Beth Goetsch and they lived in Rochester for a number of years. They were later divorced. After his accident he was employed at St. Mary’s Hospital as a Telephone Operator from 1980-1992. As a quadriplegic, he also took people into his home to teach them how to live independently. He then opened JD Coins 11/1/1990 to present. He owned and operated the store until now, along with his right hand man and close friend, Joe Ryan. He was a past member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Wykoff.

He enjoyed trips to Kissimmee, FL, to Vegas and  playing bingo with his friends and care givers! He was up for anything fun anyone had in mind. At all times, He had his water jug filled with Country Time Lemonade. His favorite beverage of choice! He loved time spent with his family, friends and dogs. Especially his beloved fur baby, Suzie, a Terrier, she was the love of his life. He was heartbroken when she passed away. He loved all of his dogs but she was something extra special to him. He also loved Max (Bill’s fur baby) and would always call him Dog, not Max! He'd say, “HeyDog”! 

Joel had a super big and kind heart. Everyone loved him and loved to be around him! He made many, many friends especially around the coin shop. He will be missed by all. ”I wish he was still here and will love him forever” – Maria. “ When a friend leaves, a great void is always left; my friend, you will always be in my heart” – Betty. 

We want to Thank all his Caregivers that have helped him throughout the years and became his good friends. A special and sincere Thank You to the St. Mary’s Hospital ICU Mary Brigh 6G and Mary Brigh 6B, for your amazing care and kindness to all of us, for the last 3 ½ weeks. We were there so long that you all felt like family to us. We appreciate all of you more than you will ever know. Thank you for everything that you do. Also, thank you so much to the sweet RN angel that brought in water and snacks during our last hours with Joel. Hugs to you all.

Joel is survived by his brother Bill (Patty) Schroeder of Stewartville and his sister – Dr. Susan Schroeder of Maryland and nephew Heath (Rebecca) Schroeder, great nephew Cooper Schroeder and great niece Lennon Schroeder, cousins, employees, friends and caregivers (Joe, Cassie, JJ, Lulu and Betty, etc.). He was preceded in death by his parents Alfred and Dolores Schroeder and aunts and uncles.                                                                                          

In keeping with Joel’s wishes no service or visitation will be held at this time. A Celebration of Life will take place from 5 to 8:00 PM on Thursday, (August 27, 2026) at the American Legion in Rochester, MN, at 915 21st Ave SE. Arrangements are with Griffin-Gray F.H. in Stewartville. Condolences and memories of Joel are welcome at www.griffin-gray.com

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