Thomas R. Schultz, 85, of New Smyrna Beach, left us for his heavenly home on Sunday, November 18, 2012, with his family by his side. Tom was born March 16, 1927, and raised in Chicago, Illinois. Tom was a veteran of the United States Navy, serving during WWII, and graduated from Loyola University in Chicago. Tom married Shirley Rowan in 1951, after “falling in love at first sight” while working at the Chicago Railroad Fair. Tom and Shirley had two children, Nancy and Timothy.
Tom and his family spent most of his professional years in Wisconsin, where he enjoyed a very successful career of over forty years. His profession afforded Tom and Shirley the opportunity to travel extensively throughout the world. Tom’s collection of mementos from the various corners of the globe was one of his many “treasures” and remains a sight to behold.
After retiring from Maritz Corp in 1990, Tom and Shirley moved to New Smyrna Beach to begin the next phase of their life. Tom loved to golf and spent countless hours on the course at Sugar Mill Country Club. Over the years, Tom’s steady, precise play helped him amass several Holes-In-One and excel in match play, hitting the difficult shots when they counted most. When he wasn’t on the course, Tom spent many hours volunteering his time at Bert Fish Medical Center, Hospice of Volusia/Flagler, and helping his community’s installation of the Life Line system.
An avid reader, artist, crossword solver and news “buff”, Tom brought an enlightened perspective to most any conversation. This enlightenment, coupled with his charm and charisma, made his wit and wry humor all the more impactful for those with whom he interacted. Tom loved to share stories, jokes and time with his cherished friends and family in Florida, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and California.
Tom was preceded in death by his beautiful wife, Shirley, as well his brother, Robert, and sister, Margaret. He is survived by his daughter, Nancy, and son, Timothy, as well as six grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to Hospice of Volusia/Flagler, 4140 South Ridgewood Avenue, Edgewater, Florida 32141.
A memorial service will be held at 10:00am on Friday, November 30, 2012 at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, 4000 S. Atlantic Avenue, New Smyrna Beach.
My heart goes out to you over the loss of your father. Both Tom and Shirley were so special. Tim I enjoyed playing golf with you and your dad at the mountain course in Massunutun, Virginia. Tom always had a smile on his face and a great sense of humor. He loved both of you to distraction. We will miss him.
love,
your cousin,
Jim Rowan