David F Schultz

David Frank Schultz died January 13, 2022, at his home in Tecumseh, Nebraska, with family by his side. He was born June 25, 1949 to Melvin and Eileen (Brockmeier) Schultz. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul’s UCC (Maple Grove) and was a member of Maple Grove at the time of his passing. When David was in 8th grade, he played the part of Jesus in a play written by Pastor Kruse. At that time, everyone said that he should go into ministry as he did such a great job of depicting Jesus.

David grew up on a farm helping with crops, putting up hay, milking cows and doing the many other chores found on a farm. He was a spunky and ornery fellow and often got into trouble when he would tease his sisters and brother or do something to irritate his mom and dad.

David’s education occurred at several schools – District 68 (one-room school house), Lewiston, and Tecumseh. He graduated from Tecumseh High School in 1967. David excelled at playing on the football team and was well known for his toughness and tenacity. One of his proudest moments was when he received a letter from Coach Bob Devaney inviting him to visit UNL on a football Saturday. David attended UNL for one year but, unfortunately, he was not able to play football for the Huskers. However, he became one of their biggest fans no matter their record.

David’s working career took him in many different directions. He first started working with Lotemp Insulation; then he built houses in Liverpool, New York; and later moved back to Nebraska to work for Klaasmeyer Farms near Burr. He then started managing feed mills that were struggling and brought them back to life. These included the Lone Star Cotton Hauls in Idalou, Texas; an alfalfa pellet mill in Hugoton, Kansas; and Land ‘o Lakes feed mills in Rochester and Loogootee, Indiana and Greenfield, Ohio. In 2012, David retired from the feed mill business and moved back to Tecumseh.

In 1973, David married Lavina (Lee) Guest who he met in Liverpool, New York while working with her brother-in-law. To this union, Bernie and Scott were added to the family and they moved from New York to Idalou, Texas. During their time in Idalou, Lee passed away from cancer. In 1985, David married Kathy Hart and gained two daughters, Tammie and Jodie. In 1997, David married Elizabeth (Liza) Johns. Liza’s two children, Michaela and Jered, were added to the family tree.

David was a fun-loving, spirited person who everyone loved to be around. He always had stories to tell about things he did with family and friends (some of which should not be repeated)! He was a very loving, thoughtful and caring person. He never met a stranger and was a loyal brother and friend who one could always depend on. He was also one tough cookie as his body endured so much over the past few years.

David is survived by his wife, Liza; sons, Bernie (Jeanette) Schultz of Lubbock, Texas; Scott (Gracie) Schultz of South Bend, Indiana; Jered Snelson of Clearwater, Florida; daughters Michaela Johns of Winamac, Indiana; and Tammie (Matt) Dunn and Jodie (Jason) Jones of Peru, Nebraska. Survivors also include his brother Dan Schultz of Tecumseh, Nebraska; and his sisters, Marilyn (Larry) Burnett and Pat (Terry) Criger of Lincoln, Nebraska; and Jackie (Doug) Sparks of Newark Valley, New York. He has 15 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by many other relatives and friends. David was preceded in death by his first wife, Lee; his parents and infant brother, Dale.

David was a true force of good and kindness that we will always remember and cherish. He was loved deeply by everyone whose life he touched. His memory will forever remain burned in our hearts.

David’s wishes were to be cremated with his ashes scattered on the family farm.

A celebration of life open house will be held from 1- 3 p.m. Saturday, July 2, 2022 at To Gather At The Square in Tecumseh, Nebraska.  

Memorials are suggested to the Maple Grove Church Cemetery Fund in care of Wherry Mortuary, 202 N. 3rd St., Tecumseh, NE 68450.

Online condolences may be left @ www.wherrymortuary.com.

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