Rick Schultz, 63

Frederick William “Rick” Schultz, age 63, of Mendon passed away on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at Bronson Methodist Hospital after battling a lengthy illness.  He was born in Three Rivers on April 10, 1961 the son of Norman and Donna (Harner) Schultz.  Rick attended Mendon High School and was part of the 1979 graduating class.  After his graduation, Rick joined the United States National Guard. When his service was completed, he joined the United States Air Force and was stationed in Okinawa, Japan. Upon that completion, he then joined the Coast Guard Reserve.  Rick also became a police officer and an emergency medical technician during his time living in Utah.  When he wasn’t protecting his community by physical means, he was helping his community’s faith by becoming a youth pastor at Crossroads Missionary Church and would even become lead pastor at Life Gate in Shipshewana.  Rick also acted as a foster parent to many children during his time in Pennsylvania, ensuring children were taken care of and loved.  He was a people person who would often showcase his unique sense of humor and shower people with his fantastic singing ability.  For a brief stint, Rick ran a hot dog cart and expressed his wonderful cooking skills.  He was an avid collector of knives and other tactical gear as well as hats, which would often be traded/bargained/gifted to his family members.  Every once in a while, Rick would relax, watching The Lawrence Welk Show, to the point his very young son could recite the songs by heart.  Rick loved his country, he loved the people he was surrounded by, and did everything he could to protect them as a public servant; all while showing off that beautiful beard of his.

Rick is survived by his son and best friend; Elijah Schultz; siblings; Mary (Joe) Salter, Bill (Vicki) Schultz, Carol Ann (Mike) Weinberg-Smith; nephews; Ryan Schultz, Eathen (Abby Jones) Schultz, Caleb Salter, Jared (Coral) Salter, Steven (Kaela) Schultz; and many other nieces, nephews, and extended family.  He was preceded in death by his parents; Norman and Donna Schultz; brother; Robert Schultz; nephews; Robert Schultz and Lance Weinberg.

Visitation for Rick will be held at the Eickhoff Funeral Home on Sunday, March 2, 2025 from 3 until 7pm.  Funeral services will be held at Crossroads Missionary Church on Monday, March 3, 2025 at 11am with Pastors Alex Brovont and Jamey Smith officiating.  Following services cremation will be conducted.  It is suggested that donations made in Rick’s name be made to Rooted of St. Joseph County, where funds will go to help children who suddenly enter foster care.  Condolences and memories may be expressed to his family at eickhofffuneralhome.com