Obituary of Donald Charles Schultz Jr.

July 27, 1953 - November 15, 2024

Donald Charles Schultz Jr.  Age 71 of Wyandotte.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Donald Charles Schultz Jr., age 71 of Wyandotte, Michigan, on November 15, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Beloved husband of Susan. Loving father of Jaclyn (Jonathan) Misch. Dearest grandfather of Logan Misch. Dear brother of David (Kathy) Schultz and Diane (Barry) Hamilton. Dearest uncle of Tyler Hamilton, Madison Hamilton, Jared Schultz, Evan Schultz, Treavor Schultz and Christina McMillan.

Born on July 27, 1953, in Wyandotte to Donald Schultz Sr. and Delores Franczak, Don was a lifelong resident with a passion for his hometown. He served two terms as an elected Wyandotte City Councilman, was a member of the Wyandotte Planning Commission, and former president of the Wyandotte Historical Society. His community involvement extended to ushering at Our Lady of Mount Carmel, serving on the Downtown Design Review and the Retirement Commission, as well as being the proud driver for Santa Clause in the City of Wyandotte Christmas parade for many years. Don loved the automotive industry and devoted 35 years as the Service Manager at Southgate Lincoln Mercury, never losing his love for cars. He found joy in building model cars, watching classic car auctions, and doing fix-ups for friends and family. But his enthusiasm didn’t stop at cars; he was also a devoted fan of the University of Michigan Football team. Few fans were as devoted to the Maize and Blue as Don Schultz. Game days were sacred in his household, and even during the off-season, he kept the spirit alive by watching Big Ten Classics. For Don, football was a year-round passion. 

While community, cars and football were clear hobbies of his, family was the cornerstone of his life. Married to his beloved wife Susie for 42 years, he was a devoted husband, proud father and grandfather who cherished family traditions and gatherings. His family will remember him for his charm, legendary storytelling and the magical moments he created – like throwing 2x4s on the roof so his daughter, Jaclyn, knew Santa and his reindeer were delivering presents on Christmas morning. Don was a meticulous craftsman who poured his love into every project. From the kitchen paper towel holder to the clubhouse he built for his daughter, the deck, the patio – every project bore the mark of his love through its quality. His innovative mind turned ideas into lasting traditions, like “The Bell” he crafted from a railroad crossing bell and steel pipe. On Michigan game days, “The Bell” rang six times for a touchdown and once more after the extra point, continuing a ritual started by his father-in-law and cherished by all who shared it. Don's life was a testament to love, loyalty, and joy. His stories, craftsmanship and traditions will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Wyandotte Historical Society, honoring Don's commitment to the community he cherished.