Scattered amongst the numerous occupations Franklin “Slim” Schroeder has held in his 86 years of life is a stint as a Baptist minister.
Since that time, whenever the Schroeders hold one of their gargantuan family gatherings, Slim often leads prayers before meals.
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Andy Anders / The Herald Gene Schroeder, his niece Marge Roate and Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis at Schroeder's 92nd birthday celebration May 15.
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Submitted / The Herald The six Schroeder boys line up for a family game of football.
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Submitted / The Herald Gene Schroeder with his grandchildren.
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Submitted / The Herald The Schroeder family tree as of May 17, 2021.
Marge Ozley Roate
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