Paul R. Schultz's Obituary
Paul R. Schultz, age 80, passed away peacefully on Saturday April 25, 2020. Paul fought colon cancer for several years, weathering the ups and downs of treatment with positive determination. He is preceded in death by both of his parents, Clarence and Sophia (Schiel) Schultz, his in-laws, Louis and Margret Wolffis, and his loving wife Shirley (Wolffis) Schultz who passed away in 2006.
For many years, Paul and Shirley spent their summers with great friends at the Chinook Campground in Bridgeton, MI. The pair also enjoyed visiting Branson, MO many times where they could enjoy some of their favorite country music acts in concert. Anyone who knew Paul knew of his love of old country music; Micky Gilly, Hank Williams Jr., George Jones and the like.
Paul was able to enjoy semi-retirement by taking several cruises to Alaska and the Caribbean, as well as, train trips across the country and back with his dear friend Sue or his loyal companion “Dutch”. He seemed most content, however, catching the latest NASCAR race, watching hours of the American Pickers, Antique Roadshow, Mecum Auto Auctions, Pawn Stars, or perusing QVC from the comfort of his own home. There certainly wasn’t a food prep gadget he didn’t like.
Paul always had an affinity for cars throughout his lifetime. He began his career at Matson Oldsmobile in Muskegon, MI. He would later work many years for National Car Rental, both in Muskegon and in Grand Rapids. He eventually became owner/operator of a car rental and sales business which, at one time, had Basic Car Rental locations in Grand Rapids, Holland, Kalamazoo, and Muskegon. Paul later owned/operated a small trucking franchise (EZ Haul/Ryder Truck) and an auto transport franchise (Auto Driveaway). He stayed active up until the end. He always loved the art of a deal including the challenge of bartering and negotiating.
While living in Muskegon, Paul and family were members of Trinity Lutheran Church and later, in the mid-1980’s, members at St Mark Lutheran Church in Kentwood, MI. Paul’s son David (Christina) Schultz and daughter Debra (John) Lodes survive him as do his six grandchildren; Aubrianna, Louis, Cadence, and Finn Schultz and Rachel and Grace Lodes. His two brothers, Phillip (Joanne) Schultz and Mark Schultz and two sister in-laws, Marlene and Lindy Wolffis also survive him. He joins his recently deceased brother in-laws, Gordon and Dale Wolffis, in peaceful rest.
A private graveside service will be held for Paul. The family will be planning a celebration of his life at a later date.
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