THOMAS W. "CHOPPER" SCHRODER

Thomas W. "Chopper" Schroder, a dedicated advocate for those with behavioral health needs, passed away on January 26 after a three-year battle with ALS. Tom was the beloved son of the late Charlotte (Meyer) and William Schroder of LaCrosse, WI. He is also survived by his devoted brother Richard and sister in-law Evelyn Zabo of Issaquah, WA ; sister Barbara and her husband Frank Barby of Altoona, WI ; sister Linda Sorenson of LaCrosse , WI; and two nephews Steven and Scott Sorenson. He was the loving companion of Dr. Terrie Mailhot, with whom he resided in Cranston, RI and Fitchburg, WI. Tom graduated from Coe College in IA, before earning a Master's Degree in Education in 1978 from Rhode Island College. He continued his studies at RIC, completing all but his dissertation in Psychology. Tom spent more than 25 years in the behavioral health field, working at Rhode Island treatment programs including CODAC, The Providence Center, and United Behavioral Health, and in Wisconsin, Gateway Mental Health and UW's Adolescent Drug & Alcohol Assessment Services. Tom maintained a private practice of psychotherapy in East Greenwich for many years. He was well liked and appreciated by his clients. Tom relished the opportunity to help others and received a commendation from the Governor following his volunteer therapy services for Station Fire survivors and family members. He also served on several statewide task forces related to substance abuse issues. Tom loved his family and friends and enjoyed playing Santa for his clients and children from The Providence Center and the Casey Family Services. A varsity football player in college and lifelong Green Bay Packers fan, Tom also enjoyed golf, skiing, tennis, football, and basketball. He touched many souls and will be forever remembered for his kindness to others, smiles for all, generosity of spirit, and his love of God and mankind. Please consider contributions in his name to the ALS Association, Rhode Island Chapter, 1637 Warwick Ave, Warwick, RI 02889-1525. A memorial service will be held for Tom, today, Saturday, February 9th at 2 pm at the Casey Family Services at 1268 Eddy Street in Providence.

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