Broster Joe Schroeder Jr. passed away on April 12, 2024. He was born in Stuart, FL on September 1, 1933 and was the only son of the late Broster Joe and Olive Schroeder of North Palm Beach, FL. Joe Married Janice F. Bozeman who he met at Winter Haven High School in 1952. They were married in the Base Chapel at Perrin AFB, TX in 1957. Joe grew up in Clewiston, FL and attended school there through the 11th grade.
The family moved to Winter Haven, FL for work at Bartow AB. Upon completing High School Joe attended the University of Florida for one year then entered the United States Air Force where he became a pilot. He flew Jet Fighters for most of his career. He and Jan had a three-year tour in Germany and a two-year tour in SE Asia. Joe Flew 122 combat missions in Viet Nam. He was awarded five Air Medals and the Distinguished Service Cross. Joe’s last assignment was flying the KC-135 air refueling aircraft.
Joe retired as a Lt. Col on September 1, 1973. After leaving the Air Force, he and Jan lived in Spokane, WA. where he built an accounting business. In 1985 they moved back to Winter Haven and ran the accounting business there until 2015. Joe was an active member of the Kiwanis Club of Winter Haven. Joe and Jan were members of Calvary Baptist Church.
A memorial service is being held on April 28th at 4 pm at Ott-Laughlin Funeral Home in Winter Haven. Joe and Jan will be laid to rest at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida.