Eugene E. Schultz
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Eugene “Gene” E. Schultz on April 29, 2026, after a brief illness. Gene was a quiet pillar of strength, wisdom and kindness throughout his life.
Gene was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on Oct. 4, 1945, to the late Harold E. and Ruth M. (nee Craig) Schultz and grew up on the family farm in Chester Township, Ohio. He graduated from West Geauga High School in 1964 and proudly serving in the United States Navy before returning home to build his career and raise his family.
Gene was a loving son, devoted husband, caring father, loyal brother, cherished uncle and treasured friend and neighbor.
He was employed as a welder for CEI and retired in 1992.
Gene married Jacqueline “Jackie” (nee Sikora) in 1971 and they raised their two children, Stacey and Eugene “Bo” Jr., on the farm.
Gene devoted his time to caring for the land and those around him. He believed in hard work, integrity and compassion. Whether it was working in the apple orchards, supporting a neighbor or selling at a local fruit market, Gene was all in.
He loved working on cars and tractors, splitting wood and plowing snow, and always enjoyed an ice-cold beer. He also loved road trips with Jackie, mostly south to Virginia or north to Canada. More recently, Gene worked side-by-side with his son Bo to transition his family farming tradition.
Gene was preceded in death by Jackie.
He is survived by his daughter, Stacey Schultz, of Willoughby, Ohio; son, Eugene E. Schultz Jr., of Chesterland.
Family includes brothers, Arthur Schultz (Tammy), of Fairfax, Va., and Clifford Schultz, of Chesterland (deceased); brothers- and sisters-in-law, Bruce and Cindy Gabriel, Fred (deceased) and Karen Berard, Jeff and Gail Duwe, and Dale and Janis Schroeder. He also had many loving nieces and nephews.
Gene’s spirit will remain in our hearts forever, guiding and encouraging us to lead our lives with purpose, strength and humility. May his memory continue to be a blessing to his family, friends and the community where his roots were so deep and the fruits of his labor so plentiful.
With love and deep remembrance, visitation will be held on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 4-8 p.m., at Gattozzi & Son Funeral Home, 12524 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026, at 11 a.m., at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Chester Township Cemetery.
Share a fond memory or condolence at www.gattozziandson.com.
