Obituary of William Joseph Schloeder

William Joseph Schloeder passed away at home in Toms River on 12/12/24. He was 86 years old. Born 7/6/1938 to parents William and Marion, he grew up and spent most of his life in Atlantic Highlands.

Known to just about everyone as Whitey, he developed an early love of fishing in the Sea Scouts Organization at the Atlantic Highlands Marina, where he fished with his father. 

He attended school in Atlantic Highlands, leaving high school early to serve his country in the U.S. Army. He was stationed in Germany, and several years later when he was called back by the Korean War draft, he spent time in Washington State.

Out of the Army, Whitey worked with his dad for Monmouth Construction, where he honed his skills as a master carpenter. 

With this experience he founded Indian Head Home Improvements with his friend, Eddie Palm, in 1970. Whitey was well-known for his craftsmanship and work ethic in this arena, and he built - with his own hands - the beautiful home he would raise his family in and live for almost 40 years on East Lincoln Avenue.

In his 20s and 30s, Whitey enjoyed hunting in Upstate NY with friends. And as we all know, he loved fishing. 

He married Sylvia Robertson, the love of his life, in 1977, adopting her daughter, Susan, and having a child of their own, Erica. Whitey and Sylvia had just celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary November 26. Over the years, they enjoyed many vacations in various places, but always found themselves back in Mexico. 

In the summers, he spent his free time with his wife and many friends down on Pier 3, where he kept his favorite child - his 31' Bertram, the Woodbutcher.  

Whitey was a beloved individual, known by everyone for being a great guy. And he really was. 

He is survived by his wife, Sylvia, and two daughters, Erica Schloeder and Michelle Gawlikowski. 

He was predeceased by his parents; his brothers, Carl and Peter; and his sisters, Amy, Alma, and Norma; as well as his stepdaughter, Susan. 

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Atlantic Highlands Methodist Church Food Pantry would be greatly appreciated.