Our Team

Rhonda L. Kline

General Manager

With more than 30 years of experience in the legal field, Rhonda has built a distinguished career as a paralegal. Throughout her professional journey, she has remained deeply committed to serving others—both in her career and in her community.

Her extensive legal background has provided a strong foundation for her role as General Manager. Years of working in highly regulated environments strengthened her attention to detail, organizational leadership, and ability to navigate complex documentation and compliance requirements with accuracy and confidence. Managing sensitive case files, coordinating with multiple agencies, and upholding strict ethical standards prepared her to oversee daily operations with professionalism, accountability, and integrity.

Rhonda’s legal experience also refined her communication and problem-solving skills—essential qualities in funeral service. She understands how to guide families through complicated processes with clarity and compassion, ensuring they feel informed, supported, and respected every step of the way. Her ability to remain calm under pressure and manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously allows her to lead her team effectively while maintaining a steady presence for the families she serves.

Rhonda has volunteered extensively with organizations such as CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), local crisis hotlines, and women’s shelters, consistently dedicating her time and compassion to individuals and families in need. These experiences deepened her empathy and strengthened her ability to respond thoughtfully during moments of crisis—skills that are invaluable in her leadership role.

Her most profound calling emerged during her 12 years as a Blue Star Mom and as the Southwest Colorado Blue to Gold Star Liaison, where she supported the families of fallen service members. While her ex-husband, son and daughter-in-law were serving in the Armed Forces, Rhonda served as the first civilian point of contact for families immediately following notification of loss. In this role, she compassionately guided military families through both the complexities of the system and the deeply personal journey of grief. This experience reinforced her ability to provide structured guidance while honoring each family’s unique needs—an approach she carries into her work every day.

Rhonda genuinely values connection and community. As General Manager, she brings together her extensive professional experience, leadership skills, and heart for service to ensure that both the funeral home and cemetery operate with excellence, dignity, and compassion. Her background uniquely equips her to balance operational oversight with personalized care, providing thoughtful, steady support to families during life’s most difficult moments.

Jennifer Ernste

Family Service Counselor

Jenn joined Schrader Funeral home in January of 2024. Jenn comes to us with over 8 years in the industry where she has helped families in both “pre-need” and “at need” situations. Jenn is passionate when it comes to helping others and truly wants families to know that “You are not alone.” Jenn helps our families through difficult decisions of pre-planning their funeral arrangements. Pre-planning allows our loved ones to know our wishes, and not burdening them with having to make difficult decisions on our behalf as they are already made for them.

In her spare time, Jenn enjoys spending time with her family and animals, working out, seeking out new restaurants and exploring new places.

David Van De Vliet

Funeral Arranger and Certified Crematory Operator

Born and raised in Antwerp, Belgium, David first came to the US, to go to college. During that time he met and married Tia. The two of them have been married for 22 years, have 5 children and 3 grandsons.
David has done many things, he spent 18 years in ministry, has worked in sales, finance, service and has owned his own business. Today, and for more than 5 years now, he puts his passion for making people’s lives better into working with the families here at Schrader’s.
Outside of work he spends time with his family, plays soccer and watches as many Oregon Ducks games as possible. Preferable live and in person.