Paul Schroeder, age 98, of Tustin, California passed away peacefully on January 16, 2026. He joined his siblings Jack, David, Mary Alice and his parents Carl John Schroeder and Alice Ruth (Corrigan) Schroeder.
He is survived by his wife Dessa; his children Michael, Louise Helland (Andy), Nick (Ann), Chris (Zi), and Stephanie; his grandchildren Katie Kreun (Casey), Michael (Abbie), Jennifer Clark (Mickey), Lisa Evans (Andrew), Mark, Sara, Katie Helland, Carson, and Grace; and his great-grandchildren Elle Simms (Will), Audrey, Emily, Adalyn, Liam, and Killian.
Paul served his country as a radar instructor with the United States Air Force, then attended University of Detroit on the GI bill. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Engineering and went on to a career as a chemical engineer, specializing in water desalination. He was a devoted husband and loved nothing more than dancing with his wife Dessa and spending time with his family.
A visitation will be held on Thursday January 29, 2026 from 5pm to 9pm at Saddleback Chapel, 220 E. Main St., Tustin, CA 92780. A funeral mass will be held on Friday January 30, 2026 at 10:30am at St. Michael’s Abbey at 27977 Silverado Canyon Road, Silverado, CA 92676. Grave site services will follow at Ascension Cemetery at 24754 Trabuco Rd, Lake Forest, CA 92630.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more