John J. Schultz

High Falls - John J. Schultz, 84, of High Falls, passed away peacefully on Monday February 9, 2026, at HealthAlliance Hospital. Born in Port Washington, NY, on September 25, 1941, to the late John and Mary Schultz, John was a man of strength, a booming voice, and a heart dedicated to service.
After graduating high school, John enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving proudly in the Combat Engineers as a heavy equipment operator. He attained the rank of Sergeant and earned both the Expert Marksmanship Badge (Rifle) and the Good Conduct Medal before his honorable discharge in 1962. Returning home, he brought his skills to the family business, working as a machine operator for his father's construction company on Long Island.

In 1980, John found his permanent home in High Falls, where he built his own house and raised his family with his former wife, Linda Williams. As a custom builder for over 30 years, John left an indelible mark on the Hudson Valley, with his expert craftsmanship woven into the homes and structures of the community he loved. His devotion to High Falls extended beyond his work as he served for many years as a dedicated driver and EMT for the Marbletown First Aid Unit.

John's later years were filled with sunshine and companionship. He shared his time between the Hudson Valley and Southwest Florida with his longtime partner, the late Jessamy Stemler. Together they built a home where John spent countless hours tending to his beloved gardens.

Affectionately known as "Johnny," "Big John," or "Papa Smurf," he was the life of every room he entered. His bright blue eyes and signature sense of humor were matched only by his reputation as a true gentleman. Even as his health declined, his spirit remained bright through his love for classic country music and the compassionate care provided by his family and devoted caregivers.

He was predeceased by his siblings Mary Zalewski, Gerald Schultz, and Christopher Schultz. He is survived by his son Kurt Schultz (Jessica), his daughter Norah Mastro (Lou), his cherished grandson Nicholas, and many nieces and nephews.
Visitation for family and friends will be on Friday February 13 from 4 PM to 7 PM at the George J. Moylan Funeral Home Inc., 2053 Route 32, Rosendale. A Mass of Christian Burial will be 12 noon on Saturday February 14 at St. Peter's Church in Rosendale. Interment will follow with Military Honors at High Falls Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in John's memory to the Marbletown First Aid Unit or Hudson Valley Hospice.