Rick L. Schulz

Rick L. Schulz

November 06, 1953 - August 28, 2024

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Obituary

MCFARLAND - Rick Lee Schulz, age 70, of McFarland, Wis., passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024, with his wife of 50 years by his side. Rick bravely battled a progressive form of Lewy Body Dementia, which took a toll on his body and mind but never diminished his sense of humor or his witty personality.


Rick was born on Nov. 6, 1953, in Beloit, Wis., to Tom and Sharon Schulz. He grew up in Monona, where he met the love of his life, Colleen Gannon. They were married on Nov. 17, 1973. The couple welcomed their first son, Scott, while living in Madison. Shortly after the birth of their second son, Eric, Rick and Colleen moved to McFarland, where they built their forever home in 1977. Their family was completed with the addition of their third son, Adam, several years later.


Rick dedicated 40 years to his career at Oscar Mayer-Kraft Foods, starting in the plant and later transitioning to roles in Research and Development until his retirement in 2013. During the many years that Colleen ran an in-home daycare, Rick would come home from work and happily spend time with the children in their care. His love for babies and children was evident in the way he cherished his grandchildren. Rick was a devoted grandparent, never wanting to miss his grandchildren's sporting events and activities.


In the fall of 1987, Rick established the McFarland Youth Football program, which he ran for over 30 years. It brought him great pride to give young athletes the opportunity to enjoy the sport he loved. His commitment to the program and the McFarland community has left a lasting impact.


Summers were spent at Presque Isle Lake in the Northwoods, where Rick and Colleen made lifelong memories with their children and grandchildren. These family vacations were a source of joy and will be cherished forever. Rick loved Presque Isle so much that he chose it as his final resting place.


Rick is survived by his beloved wife, Colleen; their three sons and daughters-in-law, Scott and Christy, Eric and LeeAnn, and Adam and Paige; and his nine grandchildren, Elijah, Logan, Gavin, Zander, Lucas, Mallory, Steven, Finn and Aiden. In addition to his immediate family, Rick is survived by his loving and adoring in-laws, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.


The family extends heartfelt gratitude to BeeHive Homes of Oregon and Agrace HospiceCare for the compassionate care provided to Rick during his final months.


At Rick's request, a private funeral service will be held. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered in our hearts. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.


Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420



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Judy Serkosky
Other •
With our deepest sympathy, we are sending our love to Colleen and the entire Schulz family. Rick was our most wonderful friend and neighbor for over 20 years. He was always willing to lend a hand and was always ready with a funny story. He will be dearly missed. May his memory be eternal. Stan & Judy Serkosly
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Rob Engelhart
Other •
I send my deepest condolences to Colleen Schulz and Rick's entire family and friends. Rick's contribution to the youth of McFarland and the entire football community is something to admire. Rick you gave so many kids an opportunity to flourish in the sport you loved. It should be the mission of the McFarland Youth Football program to make sure your efforts continue on. It was an honor to work with you and the McFarland youth football program. RIP my friend.
AP
Andrew Palmer
Other •
Rick was a great man. His calming demeanor sense of humor and underlying strength were the 3 things I will never forget. I had the honor to work along side Rick many times over the 15 years I spent at Oscar Mayer. From Tampa to Madison to Presque Isle memories of hard work and fun along the way. Stories of “Deer Camp” where I’m certain Rick never even took a gun to camp. He always had his blaze orange. On our annual Ice fishing trip with the OM team he and Bill VanDyke took the snowmobile to the retreat. They promised it would be a short trip… 😃. I just remember Rick and Bill squeezing onto the sled looking like a couple Orange Construction Barrels traveling across the lake. This year I’ll look back on the memories in Presque Isle and be sure to set a flag for Rick. I like many will never forget Rick. I was blessed to know him..
BD
Bill & Cheryl Van Dyke
Other •
To Rick, Loved him like a brother. He was always making jokes. Thats what I remember about him. I lost my best friend a week ago and now Rick, too.
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Gary
Other •
We send our deepest sympathy to Colleen and family for the loss of Rick. I first met Rick whilst working on a project for my company in England, it was an instant bond and we have remained friends ever since. As a family we also enjoyed Rick and Colleens visits to England and Europe. Rick will be sadly missed and always remembered by all our family forever. We send all our love, Gary, Meg Christopher, Matthew, Stuart, Helen and Anthony. X
DJ
Dan Jorris
Other •
We met at Winnequah the first day of 7th grade. I was blessed to know Rick and grateful for the memories we made. Rick was a good man. Rest in Pease, my friend.

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