Erma Mitchell Schroeder

Mitchell Schroeder, Erma 3/25/1933 - 12/24/2020 Allegan, MI Erma (Finley) Mitchell Schroeder, of Allegan, MI, passed away at home of natural causes on December 24, 2020, at the age of 87. Erma was born to parents Herman and Juanita Finley on March 25, 1933, in Chicago, IL. She grew up as the youngest of six children and graduated from Allegan High School. Erma is survived by her daughters Lorraine (Michael) Dangerfield, and Arlene Mitchell (who cared for her during her last months); sons, Leo Mitchell, Jr, and Michael Mitchell, Sr; stepdaughters Stacy Bush, Lisa (Jeff) Billingsley, and Erin Rehberger; 14 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, and special extended family members: Howard & Theresa Young, Rita Miller, Herman Yarber, III, Tina T, and Cynthia Zerbe. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ronald Schroeder; two sons, Anthony Mitchell, and Terry Mitchell; parents Herman and Juanita Finley; former husband and father of her children, Leo Mitchell, Sr, and her five siblings: Doris Brown, Adrian Brown, Herman Finley, Jr., Olga Finley, and Faith Portrum. Erma's career in education was extensive. While raising her six children, Erma went on to get a bachelor's degree in Educational Administration from Wayne State University in 1970; a master's degree from Western Michigan University in 1973; and a specialist degree in Administration from Wayne State in 1980. Erma also pursued getting her PhD at Yale University, which she was not able to complete the final credits to graduate. She served as a special education teacher, supervisor, and principal before becoming a superintendent. A highlight of her career was a service award from Yale University in 1985 while serving as Director of School Development for Benton Harbor Area Schools. Her extensive leadership was sought after by many, and she was a published co-author on the School Development Model, effecting policy change. Erma retired in 1995. She was an accomplished seamstress, making suits and other clothing for herself and family. In 2005, she accompanied Ron, who had co-contracted operating a ferry on the St. Mary's River, running between Barbeau, MI, and Nebbish Island for three very cold winters, but they enjoyed every minute of it. In their 40+ years together, Ron and Erma spent many happy hours traveling by boat or motorcoach. They particularly enjoyed the casinos where they wintered in Biloxi, MS, before Ron's death in 2017. Erma leaves behind a legacy of respect for her knowledge, her accomplishments, and her integrity. Her education discipline carried over into her grandchildren's lives, and they all knew Grandma's rules were never broken. She had a lifelong deep faith in God, and she loved her family fiercely and unconditionally. To have a conversation with Erma enriched you; she was sharp as a tack up through her last days. She knew what each of her 35 great/grandchildren were up to. Erma will be greatly missed, and her death leaves a void that cannot be filled. Per her wishes, a cremation has taken place and there will be a memorial service later. The family is grateful for all prayers and condolences. Donations can be made to Holland Hospice if desired.