Donald "Don" John Schultz, age 80, passed away on Thursday November 5, 2026, at Agrace HospiceCare, Fitchburg, WI. He was born on October 9, 1946, to Donald and Helen (Treu) Schultz in Wausau, WI. Don married Alyce Heahlke on October 30, 1976, in Wausau, WI.

Don worked for GTE for nearly 30 years before retiring. Retirement didn’t slow him down, as he continued driving school bus and taking on contract telecommunications work.

A lifelong outdoorsman, Don found great joy in hunting, fishing, and spending time in the great outdoors. He especially loved Wisconsin’s Northwoods, where he designed and built our family cabin just outside of Phelps, Wisconsin. Don was also passionate about sharing his knowledge and love of the outdoors, serving as a Hunter Safety Instructor for many years.

Above all, Don cherished time with his grandchildren and loved being part of their lives. Whether it meant watching their sporting events, cheering them on at karate, or simply showing up for whatever activities they enjoyed, Don was always there to support them. Their happiness brought him tremendous joy, and he treasured every opportunity to watch them grow and pursue their interests.

Don is survived by his children, Laura (Daniel) Prenkert, Lisa (Kevin) Barman; grandchildren, Alyssa and Austin Prenkert, Blake and Anna Barman; siblings, Robert Schultz and Beverly Winters and many nieces, nephew, relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his wife Alyce who passed away on Sept 20, 2005.

Family would like to thank the staff at The Legacy in DeForest for all of their help and support over the last year.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at Norway Grove Memorial Lutheran Church, 820 River Road, DeForest, WI. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at church. Burial will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 13, 2026, at Restlawn Cemetery, 235962 N Troy St, Wausau, WI 54403 in Wausau, WI.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Agrace HospiceCare or The Lewy Body Dementia Association.

To view full details or leave a memory, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services
Windsor/DeForest Chapel
6924 Lake Road
608-846-4250

Donald J. Schultz

October 09, 1946 - November 05, 2026

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