Donald "Don" Earl Schultz
What do you remember about Donald? Share your stories and photos here, and invite others to come share their memories.
Donald Earl Schultz of Maywood, Nebraska was peacefully called home on the morning of October 20th, 2022. He was born on March 14th, 1937 on the home ranch to Bertha Doudna and Lake Schultz.
Don lived his life to the fullest. He started driving semi at the age of 15 hauling cattle. This journey brought him through a fulfilling career of 50 plus years and over 8 million miles back and forth across the United States. This adventure is where his greatest pride lay. In his younger, wilder years, he rode saddle bronc and raced chuck wagons, and was a deputy in Denver for a short time in the early 60's. Don was also a farmer. He moved to Wisconsin in 1969 and operated 11 farms in and around Rock County throughout the 70's and 80's. He offered custom farming services and also filled silos. Legend states he was the first to milk 150 cows in the area during that time. He also enjoyed, and thrived, at fixing things, especially if that thing had wheels. His knowledge base was incredible, and came in handy to many, quite often.
Don was hard-working, determined, able, a strong leader, a patient teacher, and always had a twinkle in his eye when he was up to no good. He loved animals, friends and family, country and polka music, and the beautiful countryside. After finally retiring at the age of 80, Don would sit in the driveway in his Ford pickup listening to music so loudly it could be heard from one end of the farm to the other. He also never said no to bringing home another critter to care for and enjoy. He had a gentle and caring soul and will be missed by many.
Don was proceeded in passing by his mother, father, three brothers (Wayne, Jerry, and Harold as an infant), and two sisters (Neva and Donna). He is survived by his significant other of 30 years, Donna, step-daughter Heather (Adam) and granddaughter Emiliah in Wisconsin and brother Everett (Mary) and several nieces, nephews, and cousins in Nebraska.
A celebration of life will be planned near Evansville, Wisconsin in the next several weeks to gather and share stories, just as Don would have liked. Further announcements will be shared.
A heartfelt thank you to SSM Hospice aids, nurses, chaplain, social workers, and all supportive staff for the incredible care to help maintain comfort for and support Don and his family throughout a difficult time.