William "Bill" Walter Schultz, 62, of LaPorte, IN, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, March 16th, 2024, at Northwest Health, LaPorte, after a highly successful battle and courageous campaign against cancer over the last eight years. Bill continually baffled nurses, doctors, and specialists with various anomalies they had never seen before and persevered through ALL of them with dignity and grace.
William was born on November 23rd, 1961, in Michigan City, IN, to William and Arlene (Orzech) Schultz.
On October 15th, 1994, in Michigan City, IN, he married the love of his life and unwavering care magistrate, Darla Garbacik, who survives. Also surviving are his adored children, Kristen (TJ) Reed of Noblesville, IN, Jenna (Chris) Austin of Noblesville, IN, Braylyn Schultz and Brock Schultz of LaPorte, IN; grandchildren, Scarlett and Vincent Reed, Graham and Jack Austin; sister, Rebecca (Clifford) Sheeler; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Not to be left out, his beloved golden retriever daughters, LuLu and Daisy Mae.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William and Arlene Schultz; infant daughter, Stephanie Schultz; and parents-in-law, Daniel and Kay Garbacik.
He graduated from Elston High School in 1980. Bill received his bachelor's degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. He was a Financial Analyst at Sullair Corporation for 29 years and worked 16 years as a Plant Controller and Costing Manager for UGN, Inc.
Bill was competitive and enjoyed sports, including golfing with Caddy Shackers Golf League and bowling with the Civic League for numerous years alongside lifelong friends. He also played recreational softball for many years. Bill most loved watching all of his children excel in their respective sports throughout their school years. He enjoyed playing cards and games with family and friends, as well as casino games of chance. Bill faithfully cherished his beloved White Sox, the Bears, and the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame. Although never formally trained, he was a Grill Master and Mixologist extraordinaire!
Bill was an exceptional father, husband, friend, and man; his absence will be deeply felt.
Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte, IN.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at noon on Friday, March 22nd, 2024, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center.
A time of visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service on Friday.
In lieu of flowers and windchimes, the family kindly encourages memorial contributions to the Gift of Life Transplant House of Rochester, MN (www.gift-of-life.org), which served as Bill's second home during his many visits to the Mayo Clinic.
Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.cutlercares.com
