Charles Kenneth (Ken) Schroeder

Ken was born on March 15, 1946, in Harlingen, Texas, to Dorothy (Erwin) and Floyd Schroeder. He graduated from San Benito High School in 1964 and from the University of Texas at Austin in 1968, where he majored in Personnel Management. After college, Ken worked in human resources at Whataburger and later as a law firm administrator at firms in Corpus Christi and Houston, including Thompson Coe, Hayes, McConn & Rice.

Ken was a devoted member of Resurrection MCC in Houston, where he served on the Board of Directors and sang joyfully in the choir. He was also active in Excel in Houston, a spiritual outreach to the LGBTQ+ community, through which he traveled internationally, including to South Africa and Mexico. He was also a strong advocate for seeding new churches and ministries.

Beyond his church involvement, Ken was active in EPAH, the HRC Federal Club local team, and the Houston LGBTQ+ Political Caucus. He attended Victory Fund events, Krewe of Olympus Balls, and volunteered countless hours at the Montrose Center, Dickens on the Strand in Galveston, and the Galveston Homes and Gardens Tours. Ken could often be found feeding the hungry, raising funds, and collecting toys for children and other charitable organizations. He was well known for his quiet acts of kindness toward coworkers and friends, always preferring to remain anonymous.

Ken also loved cooking and entertaining. Those fortunate enough to attend one of his legendary dinner or cocktail parties will remember his warmth, generosity, and hospitality.

Ken was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy (Erwin) Schroeder; his father, Floyd Schroeder; and his sister, Janet Shivers. He is survived by numerous cousins across the United States.

A memorial service will be held on February 14, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Resurrection MCC, 2025 W. 11th Street, Houston, Texas 77008, followed by a Celebration of Life reception from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Ken’s abundant life. If you have any photos of Ken, please forward them to [email protected] so they can be included in his services.

In accordance with Ken’s wishes, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Resurrection MCC, 2025 W. 11th Street, Houston, Texas 77008, or to the charity of your choice.