Richard Schutte

Richard M. Schutte, age 96, beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, teacher, coach, and friend, passed away on September 8th, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He went to be with the Lord he loved and served so faithfully. Born on June 21, 1929, in Ishpeming, Michigan, Richard was the son of Guy and Hilda Schutte. He graduated from Republic High School in Michigan's Upper Peninsula before pursuing higher education at St. Olaf College, Northern Michigan University, the University of Michigan and Central Washington University. Richard went on to earn his Master's degree from Mankato State University in Minnesota. A brave veteran, Richard served as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army Airborne Division during the Korean War from 1951 to 1952. For his fearless actions in combat, he was awarded the Silver Star. Though he rarely spoke of his heroism, Richard is honored for his extraordinary courage during a critical engagement. Richard had a lifelong passion for teaching and coaching. He spent many years shaping young minds and inspiring athletes in Shelton, WA; Compton, CA; Los Angeles, CA; Ashland, WI; and Saginaw, MI, before concluding his 28-year career at Rochelle Township High School, where he retired in 1992. He was later inducted into the R.T.H.S. Athletic Hall of Fame in 2008. A gifted athlete, Richard was a conference champion in cross-country during his college years, running an average mile time of 4 minutes and 20 seconds-a testament to his dedication and competitive drive. He continued to embrace the outdoors throughout his life, especially in his beloved Upper Peninsula of Michigan, where he enjoyed skiing, hunting, trapping, fishing, and savoring pasties. Known for his quick wit, great sense of humor, and boundless positivity, Richard was a joy to be around. He had a special gift for uplifting those around him with ease. With an adventurous past, Richard had great stories to be heard-whether it was mining in Montana, logging in Northern Michigan, dodging bears while working as a Park Ranger in Yellowstone, and even hopping trains in his youth. In his later years, Richard found peace and joy in quieter pursuits. He loved spending time with his family, sitting on the dock at Lake Sule, tending to his abundant garden, golfing, reading, watching sports, and exercising with long, daily walks around town. Richard is survived by his devoted wife, Helen; his children: Michael (Cappy) Schutte of Sun City, AZ; Janice (Jeff) Davey of Sterling; Barbara (Corey) Westra of Granger, IN; Susan Hunter of Byron; Paula (Tim) Albers of Rochelle; and Patti (Don) LeRette of Rochelle. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Casey (Phil) Ballard, Cara (Kevin) Salvador, Emily (Scott) Morgan, Jaclyn Davey, Nicole (Dalton) Kellett, Mitch Westra, Maggie Hunter, Vance Hunter, Ethan Albers, Ava Albers, Brandon LeRette, and Amber LeRette, and his cherished great-grandchildren: Liam Salvador, Olivia Salvador, Calee Ballard, Quinn Morgan, and SylvieKellett. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Bernice Lowell of New York. Visitation will be from 10am-11am on Friday, September 12, 2025 at the Faith Lutheran Church, Rochelle. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 am with Pastor Joy Alsop officiating. Burial with military services provided by the Eastern-Lee Ogle Honor Guard and the Army Honor Guard will be at Lawnridge Cemetery. Memorials can be made to Faith Lutheran Church and/or Serenity Hospice and Home in Oregon, IL. To share a memory or express condolences, please visit https://www.ungerhorner.com/.