Rudolf Eric Schulz

Rudolf Eric “Whitey” Schulz, 83, of Shell Point, Florida, passed away Thursday, April 7, 2016. Whitey was born in New York City, NY on 12/9/1932 to Josef Schulz and Erna Arndt Schulz. He was the second son, following his brother Harold Schulz who was the firstborn. Whitey also had two younger brothers, Robert K. Schulz and William R. Schulz. He grew up and joined the U. S. Navy at age 17 during the Korean War and served as an engineer in the firing room. After serving his three years of naval duty, he went to college on the GI Bill and completed his industrial engineering degree at Georgia Tech. This is where he met the love of his life, Peggy Enil "Nell" Hammock who was attending Grady Nursing School to become a nurse.

Whitey and Nell fell in love, were soon married, and moved to Florence, Alabama where Whitey gained employment with Reynolds Aluminum. Their first son Eric Josef (Kelly) Schulz was born there and it was not long before they moved to Florida where Whitey eventually became the mining operations manager for Mobil Chemical, a major phosphate mining company. Nell and Whitey soon had another son, Gregory Lance (Susan) Schulz, who was joined by a sister, Rebecca Jean Schulz (Eric) Kile, several years later. He was a dedicated, hard working father who believed in providing a good life for his growing family. A final family member was welcomed to the Schulz family in 1969 and was named Wade August Schulz.

Whitey loved being outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing and going to the beach on vacations with his family. He had strong family values and encouraged everyone to achieve their highest goals and inspired a strong work ethic by setting a good example. He was supported in his family life by his loving wife Nell, his constant companion and confidant. Whitey had several life-long friends who brought companionship and happiness to his life and they stood by him through hard times as well as good times.

Whitey and Nell retired in 1994 and moved to their new home in Shell Point, Florida where they met a whole new circle of friends. They enjoyed entertaining guests and looked forward to family gatherings and holidays. Whitey welcomed six grandchildren to his family during this time and he loved them and educated them. Whitey and Nell’s grandchildren are: Derek J. Schulz, Kimberly D. Nelson, Jenna M. Schulz, Shelby M. Kile, Olivia E. Kile, and Sadie Jane Schulz.

After being diagnosed with lung cancer, Whitey fought hard to overcome it and lived another 13 years. He was a strong willed and determined fighter for good causes and he will be remembered, loved and missed by his friends and family. Godspeed Whitey! We love you!

In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial donations to the American Cancer Society or a favorite charity of your choice.