Marking the Passing of Oberlin Schools Superintendent John Schroth

With profound sadness, I am writing on behalf of Oberlin College and Conservatory to offer our condolences to the Schroth family on the passing Thursday morning of their beloved husband and father John Schroth.

John was the Superintendent of the Oberlin City Schools, a stalwart supporter of Oberlin’s young people, and a leading force for progress in our community. More importantly, he was a devoted father, a loving husband, and a good man.

Like many of you, I had the honor of getting to know John and his family through work, school, civic functions, and youth sports. I always marveled at what an upbeat, friendly, solution-oriented person he was.

Being the superintendent of a public school system is a tough, demanding position. John handled it with remarkable wisdom, energy, fairness, resolve, and unwavering civility. He did a terrific job leading our schools. He cared deeply about all Oberlin’s young people, and about his teachers and staff. He articulated a positive vision for the future of Oberlin’s public schools and for our community. And he was a great partner in various initiatives with Oberlin College and the city of Oberlin.

There were times when I think we all wondered if John had a twin brother because he seemed to be everywhere. He and Rebecca, his wife, attended and volunteered to work at so many school functions. Fans of the Oberlin High School soccer team on which John’s sons played tell me he rarely missed a game despite his busy schedule.

I had the privilege of getting to know John well through our respective jobs. He was simply a wonderful human being. I am deeply saddened by his loss, as I know all of you are. Please join me in holding the Schroth family in your thoughts and prayers.

The Schroth family asked us to share the following information regarding services for John.

Calling Hours – Sunday, April 26, 2-4 p.m., 6-8 p.m., Bogner Family Funeral Home, 36625 Center Ridge Road, North Ridgeville

Funeral – Monday, April 27, 7 p.m., The First Church in Oberlin, United Church of Christ, 106 N. Main St., Oberlin. Following the service, there will be reception in the Fellowship Hall.