Mark W. Schultze

Mark W. Schultze

August 27, 1948 - June 18, 2024

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Obituary

CROSS PLAINS - Mark “Viper” William Schultze, age 75, of Cross Plains, passed away on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at UW Hospital and Clinics. He was born on Aug. 27, 1948, in Bloomington, Ill., the son of William and Vera (Bramwell) Schultze.


Mark was a graduate of UW-Madison. On Aug. 30, 1969, he married Barbara (Mazlack) Schultze at Zion United Church of Christ in Milwaukee. He started out his working career in the banking industry, working at local banks. Next, he owned and operated a computer business, Office Automation Specialists. He was also very active with OccuPaws Guide Dog Association, where he served as treasurer.


In the past, Mark enjoyed helping his wife with her barrel racing. He was a pilot for numerous years, spending many hours flying to various locations with his family. He also spent many, many hours volunteering with several organizations, and in his free time, he enjoyed reading.


Mark is survived by his wife, Barb; daughter, Mindy (Daniel) Allen; son, Michael (Christine) Schultze; sister, Lori (Louis) Herrin; grandchildren, Evan Schultze, Jacob Allen, Annabelle Schultze and Noah Allen; and two beloved dogs, Barry and Dusty, as well as many working guide dogs. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Curtis A. Schultze.


A celebration of life will be held at TOKEN CREEK COUNTY PARK, Shelter No. 1, 6200 Williamsburg Way, DeForest, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, June 28, 2024.


In lieu of flowers, memorials to OccuPaws (occupaws.org) would be greatly appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.


Gunderson Cross Plains
Funeral & Cremation Care
2421 Church Street
(608) 798-3141


Events

28
Celebration of Life
Fri Jun 28, 2024 @ 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM CDT
Token Creek County Park, Shelter No. 1 • 6200 Williamsburg Way, De Forest, WI 53532
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Mark
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Mindy Allen
Other •
My dad loved volunteering with OccuPaws Guide Dogs. He would often accompany me to Lodi Elementary where his grandchildren went to school, and bring dogs for kids to read to. He loved Barry (the dog in the photo) and we wont tell mom how many human treats we may or may not have snuck him at the dinner table.
MM
Meadow's mom
Other •
Oh, how he will be missed, my first guide dog Meadiw would go crazy every time he saw Mark that was his buddy for sure! He changed so many people's lives that's for sure...he will missed but never for gotten.
DT
Dave Tolmie
Other •
In loving memory of Mark Schultze, In the quiet of dawn, a soft whisper we hear, A gentle soul, so cherished, forever held dear. Mark, you were the smile, the laugh, the bright cheer, In the heart of OccuPaws, your spirit shines clear. With care unbounded, a love so profound, In the circle of dogs, your warmth always found. Your touch, your kindness, a beacon so bright, Guiding us all through the darkest of nights. To countless lives, you brought joy and grace, A guide dog's gift, you helped us embrace. With every wag, every paw, every stride, You stood by our side, our trusted guide. Two dogs in my life, you gifted to me, A change so profound, my heart sings free. Through your dedication, your unwavering care, You taught us all to love and to share. Now, across the rainbow bridge, puppies await, Reunited with you, at heaven's gate. They gather around, tails wagging with glee, As you join them, forever free. So I raise a glass, to a man so grand, Who gave us the gift of a guiding hand. To independence, to confidence, you paved the way, In our hearts, Mark, you'll forever stay. To your family, I offer my prayers and my love, For sharing your light, like the stars above. Your infectious spirit, your laughter, your cheer, Mark, dear friend, you'll always be near. Though you are gone, your legacy lives on, In the lives you changed, in the love that’s strong. We’ll miss you dearly, but your light will remain, In the heart of OccuPaws, till we meet again Dave Tolmie and Guide dog Bailey
B
Beth
Other •
We first met Mark and Barb in 2011. It was an event where Mark helped children put on blindfolds and hold the harness while an ambassador dog guided them. Ella was only 6 at the time, but it led to her wanting to join OccuPaws and raise guide dog puppies. Mark was always so kind, thoughtful, upbeat and willing to help. Our kids were young, but Mark saw that they were serious about learning and he would give them positive feedback and encouragement at every class. (Just like he gave the dogs!) We're so sorry for your loss, Barb, Mindy, Mike and families. Mark touched many lives and will not be forgotten! Beth, Peter, Ella and Clara
AW
Angie Weiss
Other •
I only met Mark a few months ago, when I started volunteering with OccuPaws, but I can feel the hole left in his absence. I enjoyed getting to know him while tending the newborn puppies this spring. He really loved his dogs, and was so gentle and observant with them. I can tell he was a wonderful father, grandfather, dogfather, CFO, and friend. I'm sorry I didn't get to spend more time with him. My condolences to all who knew and loved him.

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