Dr. Fred P Shulski Jr.

Fred’s early life was a joyous time of travel, experiencing new cultures and customs as his father’s army career as a pediatric dentist moved the family around the country and to Germany. He and his brother John, enjoyed many adventures while fishing, hunting, and camping with their parents. His life-long love for the Kansas City Chiefs began at age five while his dad was stationed at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. As well as, he and his brother’s passion for all things BBQ. Their passions would lead the brothers on many adventures throughout his life.

He was pursuing his Biology degree from Appalachian State University in Boone, NC when he walked into Chemistry 100 and saw his future bride. Upon graduation, he moved to Greenville, NC and while awaiting entrance to medical school found his path at Ronald McDonald House of Eastern North Carolina. Fred would pursue his doctorate of medicine at East Carolina University Brody School of Medicine. Fred and Melissa married while she was a pediatric nurse working at Pitt County Memorial Hospital and he completed his medical degree.

The next journey in his professional career led them to Phoenix, AZ where he began the pediatric residency program at St Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center. Two days after completion of the program, their first child Hannah was born. Fred began working as a pediatrician at MVP Kids Care. Soon the birth of their second child, Paul followed. Claire, the youngest child was born and she completed their joyful family. Fred was a family man to the core. Raising his children with the love of his life brought him the most pride and happiness.

A close second, was his career as a pediatrician which would span 23 years at MVP Kids Care. Fred joyfully went to work bringing everyone up with his booming laugh that could be heard throughout the clinic. There was no hierarchy in his eyes as he treated everyone with respect along with a smile and a joke whether they wanted to hear it or not. He was dearly loved by his patients and families and the feelings were mutual.

Fred was generous with his time and talent whether volunteering as the team doctor during football games both at St John Paul II Catholic High School and Youngker High School or providing sports physical at various events all across the West Valley for many years. He was a former board member at Catholic Charities and former chief of staff at Maryvale Hospital. As well as volunteering countless hours at St John Vianney Catholic School. He completed every task in life with humor, compassion, and zeal.

Fred is survived by his devoted wife of 27 years, Melissa, and their three beloved children: Hannah, Paul, and Claire. His brother John and mother Anna Marie. His love, wisdom, and unwavering support will forever remain in their hearts. Fred’s legacy of kindness, strength, and dedication to his family, profession and community will continue to inspire all who knew him. Fred was preceded in death by father Fred Shulski, Sr.

A visitation for Fred will be held Sunday, December 29, 2024 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Saint John Vianney Church, 800 W Loma Linda Blvd, Goodyear, Arizona 85338. A recitation of the holy rosary will occur Sunday, December 29, 2024 at 7:00 PM, 800 W Loma Linda Blvd, Goodyear, Arizona 85338. A funeral mass will occur Monday, December 30, 2024 at 10:00 AM, 800 W Loma Linda Blvd, Goodyear, Arizona 85338. A burial will occur Monday, December 30, 2024 at 11:45 AM at Holy Cross Cemetery, 9925 W Thomas Road, Avondale, Arizona 85392.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Fred's memory may be made to St. John Vianney Catholic School, https://school.sjvaz.net/; St. John Paul II Catholic High School, https://www.jp2catholic.org/apps/pages/make-a-gift; and Ronald McDonald House, www.rmhc.org.