Jan Marie Schulz

Jan Schulz, 75, of Hollister, CA passed away on 2/4/2026 at her home in Hollister.

Jan was born in Hollister to Carl (Sully) and Henrietta (Nene) Schulz on April 13, 1950. Along with her older sister, Cheri and younger sister, Suzy, she grew up on a farm on Riverside Road, attending Union School and serving as a member of the Union 4-H Club where she raised several grand champion hogs. She was a 1968 graduate of Hollister High School. Following High School, Jan attended Gavilan College and Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo where she completed her bachelor's degree in early childhood

education. Her passion for teaching was evident, first at Jefferson Elementary School in San Benito County as both a teacher and principal. In 1982, she moved to Modesto where she spent the next 25 years teaching kindergarten at Shiloh School.

Jan loved all animals and had many beloved kitties throughout her life. She also loved holidays, especially Halloween and Christmas. She would dress up any animal or person who came close enough. Her home was always filled with decorations; and she was known for giving out the best treat bags to every trick-or-treater that came to her door. She delivered goodies to her neighbors for every holiday throughout the year. She thoughtfully sent cards and gifts (often personalized) for every birthday, holiday, and important event in the lives of those around her.

Upon her retirement Jan returned to Hollister to be near the apple of her eye, her niece (Kristi Sanders) and her pride and joy, great nephew (Kyle Sanders), with whom she shared a special bond. She stayed busy providing childcare and regularly volunteering in Kyle's classrooms, and activities including Junior Giants, Karate lessons, and Cub Scouts. She took great pride in supporting his love of music, spending countless hours helping him practice his flute during his elementary school years. Her patience and dedication paid off, as he now plays multiple instruments and went on to join his high school band and honor band. Nothing brought her more joy than listening to him play and cheering him on at concerts, parades, and competitions.

She was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, Carl and Ethel Schulz and Theophile and Anna Fonquernie, sister, Cheryl Gray, and cousins Arlette Tavares and Dorothy Sabattini.

Jan is survived by her sister, Suzanne Damm (Jerry), niece Kristi Sanders, great nephew, Kyle Sanders and many cousins whom she considered as close as siblings.

Per Jan's wishes there will be no formal services. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.