Massachusetts

Mass. Community Comes Together to Hold Funeral for WWII Veteran Who Outlived His Family

Arthur Schroeder, a Bronze Star recipient from Taunton, died Nov. 22, leaving behind no surviving family members

A Massachusetts community made sure people showed up for the funeral of a World War II veteran who died at age 99.

The Herald News reports that when Arthur Schroeder, of Taunton, died Nov. 22, and he left behind no surviving family members who could attend his funeral.

The veteran's pastor, Rev. Ami Dion, decided to reach out to Taunton Mayor-elect Shaunna O'Connell and City Councilor John McCaul to help spread the word about the Bronze Star recipient's funeral to other veterans and community members.

Members of his church say Schroeder left behind a legacy that touched many lives.

Veterans' service agent Micaila Britto said hundreds of people were expected at Saturday morning's funeral at West Congregational Church.

Britto says Schroeder "outlived his entire bloodline'' but died with many caring about him. His obituary described him as a history buff and dog lover.

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