Thomas J. Schultz

Thomas Schultz, 80, passed away on Friday, December 26, 2025, at Avalon Village in Ligonier.

Tom was born on June 11, 1945, in Niles, Michigan to William and Helen (Steere) Schultz. He graduated from Buchanan High School in Michigan. Tom then went on to attend Taylor University and then graduated from Bethel College in Mishawaka with a bachelor’s degree in ministry.

Tom served in the U.S. Air Force as a chaplain until his Honorable Discharge.

In Buchanan, Tom married Patricia, and they would own and operate Sunset Ridge Landscapes. They were passionate about their work and enjoyed always being together. Tom also farmed and liked playing with his big machines. The couple enjoyed taking off work to travel to Canada and states.

He is survived by his wife, Pat, of Shipshewana; his sons: Mark of Illinois, Tim of Pennsylvania and John Schultz of Michigan; stepchildren: Dawn, Heather, Scott, Shannon, Hayley and Patrick; 20 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren; sister Julianne Rice as well as nieces, nephews and numerous cousins. Tom was preceded in death by his parents.

Private burial will be in the Townline Mennonite Cemetery and a celebration of life will be held in the spring.