James L. Schroeder, a rheumatology professor at the Feinberg School of Medicine for 30 years, passed away Dec. 30 at age 62. A memorial service was held Jan. 10 at Christ Church in Winnetka.

Schroeder also served as the former president and CEO of Northwestern Medical Faculty Foundation, which is now Northwestern Medical Group. He had most recently served as senior associate dean for external relations at Feinberg.

“Jim was a great colleague and leader in the department and the faculty practice,” said Douglas Vaughan, chair of the department of medicine, in a news release. “He was an exemplary physician and master clinician. He has had, and will continue to have, an enduring impact on our culture and practice in the years ahead.”

Schroeder especially supported the division of rheumatology at Feinberg and was known for his upbeat personality when taking care of his patients. Vaughan said he was awed by Schroeder’s fortitude, spirit and curiosity.

“On a personal note, I always enjoyed discussing a variety of issues with him, such as local politics, the economy of medicine and other things, as we sat finishing our notes at the end of the day,” Vaughan said in the news release.

Schroeder is survived by his wife, four children and two grandchildren.

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