Edward Howard Schultz

1950-2024

Edward Howard Schultz, known affectionately as Big Ed, passed away on June 5, 2024 at home in Dorchester, surrounded by his family. Born on Dec. 8, 1950, to Virginia (Sautner) and Howard Schultz, Ed spent the first 50 years of his life on the family homestead in Veefkind. In 2000, he and his family moved to Chili. In 2021, his family built a home in Dorchester on his daughter Jodi & her husband Mike’s property, where he again enjoyed country living.

Ed was a graduate of Loyal High School, class of 1969. He liked to fondly recall his younger years attending elementary schools at Veefkind and Heathville. Upon graduation, he farmed with his father and later took over farm operations at the Veefkind homestead. He also had various jobs over the years, including hauling canned milk, construction and running a logging business. He was a member of the Chili Lions Club and Sexton of the Veefkind Cemetery. In his younger years he was in softball and bowling leagues. He was a Supervisor in the Town of Sherman and later Chairman of the Town of Fremont.

On May 11, 1974, Ed married Yvonne (Von) Kottke at St. Anthony’s in Athens. They recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Together, they raised four daughters. In 1976, Ed & Von built a beauty salon in Chili, where Von ran Yvonne’s Golden Curl for several years. In the 1990’s, Ed & Von operated the Chili Mini Mart. Ed enjoyed spending time with family and friends, playing cards, fishing and snowmobiling. He liked to tell stories of their many shenanigans from the 70’s and 80’s. He was passionate about his upbringing and family history, in recent years connecting with extended family. He loved to spend time with his grandkids. In retirement he enjoyed woodworking, creating many pieces for his family.

Ed was predeceased by his parents; father-in-law, Roy Kottke; his sister, LaVonne Zoellner; brother-inlaw, Bob DeFries; sister-in-law, Carla Goetz; brother- in-law, Jeff McNeely; and goddaughter, Amanda Schellinger.

He is survived by his wife, Yvonne; his daughters, Amy (Pete) Schultz, Sara (Nic) Schmitt, Arlee (Frank) Stevens, and Jodi (Mike) Kluczinske; his nine grandchildren, Trenton, Waylon, Taylor, Addie, Lexi, Evie, Tyson, Parker and Bryce; his siblings, John (Evelyn) Schultz, Mary (Gary) Schellinger, Rebecca DeFries, Scott (Dee) Schultz; and sister-in-law, Pamela Schultz; his mother-in-law, Carolyn Kottke; his in-laws, Brad Goetz, Kim Kottke, Kelly Kottke and Ken Kottke; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A mass to celebrate Ed’s life was held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, located at 215 South Washington Ave., Medford, Father Julian Druffner officiated, followed by lunch. Visitation was held prior to the mass from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Private interment will be held at Veefkind Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the Schultz family kindly requests donations be made to the Veefkind Cemetery Association.

Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford is serving the family.

Please visit www.hemerfuneralservice.com to share condolences online.

Paid Obituary 153909