Schultze

Richard Warren Schultze, was called to his eternal home on Jan. 29, 2026. Born on April 8, 1946, in the Bronx, New York, Rick’s journey through life was marked by dedication, service, and a deep faith. His final days were spent in La Grange surrounded by the love and prayers of his family and loved ones.

Rick’s early life was characterized by a strong commitment to education and service. He graduated from Ohio State University with a degree in Animal Science and participated in the ROTC program. He then went to infantry officer courses and continued on to Airborne & Ranger school in Ft. Benning, Ga. He was deployed to Germany where he met and married his wife of 50 years, Heidi. He served our country in Cambodia, Korea, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand as a member of the special forces - Green Berets. While in the Army reserves, Richard attended law school at the University of Houston. After 26 years, he retired with honor as a Lt. Colonel while continuing a career as an attorney in La Grange. He also served the City of La Grange for 33 years as the municipal court judge. At his retirement, he earned the honor of having the date of Feb. 14, 2022, declared as “Richard Schultze Day” in La Grange by the Mayor and city council.

Beyond his professional achievements, Rick’s life was a testament to his Christian faith, stating “God First, family second” as his motto. Rick’s commitment to his faith was evident in his volunteer work with the Kairos prison ministry where he shared hope and redemption with those behind bars. He also found joy in fellowship with the Methodist men’s group and serving at Second Chance Emporium.

Rick loved music and was a devoted attendee of the Kerrville Folk Festival, with his best friend Walter Lee. He enjoyed playing guitar and songwriting with the Soldier Songs & Voices Community. He was also a long-time volunteer at the Bugle Boy.

In recent years, Rick’s favorite place for peace and relaxation was spending time at the Rockport coast with his girlfriend of three years, Karin Glueck, and his dog, Charlie.

Family was the cornerstone of Rick’s life. Though his beloved wife Heidi preceded him in death, her memory lived on through their love and devotion. Rick’s legacy is carried forward by his loving family: sister and brother-inlaw Janet and Loren Parker; daughter Christine Brown; daughter and son-in-law Jennifer and Tony Ferrante; son and daughter-in-law David and Priscilla Schultze; and his cherished grandchildren Regan Brown, Rebecca Coker, Kyla Ferrante, Claire Ferrante, and Luke Schultze. Each family member was a source of immense pride and joy for Rick, and his guidance, wisdom, and love will be deeply missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held at New Life Methodist Church of La Grange at 11 a.m. on Monday, March 2, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Gardenia E. Janssen Animal Shelter or to Kairos Prison Ministry.

Family and friends can view and sign the guestbook online at www.lagrangefunerals. com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Koenig-Belvill Funeral Home & Cremations in La Grange.