Richard F. "Rick" Shultz

Richard “Rick” F. Shultz departed this world on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Springfield Regional Hospital after a courageous battle with sarcoma cancer. Born on December 19, 1960, Rick lived a life full of passion, dedication, and generosity, touching more lives than he could ever have imagined.

Rick was predeceased by his beloved parents, Kenneth F. Shultz and Virginia Mary Lou Shultz; his mother-in-law, Hazel Virginia Miller; and his son, Dustin Matthews. His memory will forever be cherished by those he left behind, including his devoted wife, Kathy (Lambert) Shultz, his sister Lisa Wratchford, and his ex-brother-in-law Stan Wratchford. Rick held a special place in his heart for his nephews, Joshua (Joan) Searcy and Lucas Wratchford, and his great nephew, Dominic Searcy.

He is also survived by his children, Nick Shultz and Paul (Michele) Matthews, and his grandchildren, Katy Puccio, Kaitlyn (Casey) Foraker, Austin (Lydia) Matthews, Hannah Matthews, Victoria Bendele, Brayden Matthews, and Isabella Matthews. Rick was blessed with three great-grandchildren: Dustin Matthews, Dean Matthews, and Emmarie Foraker. He leaves behind several special Shultz cousins, who always held a dear spot in Rick’s life.

Rick served proudly in the Navy for eight years, skillfully troubleshooting and launching aircraft from aircraft carriers. He then dedicated over 12 years to his career as an A&P, working for several airlines and eventually becoming the manager of maintenance reliability for Airborne. He retired as an engineer from the Defense Logistics Agency, bringing his extensive knowledge and passion for aviation to his work every day. A graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Rick was a true aviation enthusiast. He found immense joy in flying and building airplanes, even winning the Grand Champion award for his home-built airplane, the Hazel Mary Lou.

To his special brothers from other mothers Joe Smith, Ted Tracy, and Jeff Orear and dear friends Roger and Jetta James, George Medvi, and Kevin and Lori Childs, Rick was not just a friend but family. He welcomed many into his heated hangar, creating a space filled with warmth, camaraderie, and countless cherished memories.

Rick’s humility and kindness left a lasting impact on all who knew him. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of crossing paths with him. Richard "Rick" F. Shultz will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

A Celebration of Ricks Life will be held Sunday, January 18, 2026, from 1-3pm at Trostel, Chapman, Dunbar & Fraley Funeral Home. Expressions of sympathy may be made at www.trostelchapman.com.