Donald F. Shultz

On Monday, May 23, 2016, Donald F. Shultz, 85, passed away at his farm home on Goshen Rd., Emlenton, surrounded by his family and so much love.

Born October 23, 1930, Donald moved with his family to Emlenton as a young boy. Father, Steven J. and mother, Helen, along with siblings Ernie, Robert (both deceased), Steven (Ruth Shultz) of Emlenton, and Evelyn (Joe McCloskey) of Chicora, built a beautiful and thriving farm, originally known as Shultz Dairy and later as Goshen Farm.

Donald was exceptionally talented and throughout his life created countless poems, songs, and tributes. He entertained audiences of many sizes with his beautiful singing and quick wit, even singing with the Mendelson Choir in his 20’s.

His creativity was not limited to the fine arts, but also found expression in the numerous structures and businesses he envisioned, planned, and built through the years. From Shultz Dairy, Gaslight Campground, Isaly’s in Franklin, Waffle Works in Norfolk, VA, to Fat Chap’s Restaurant, Donald was an extremely hard working entrepreneur. He and his wife, Sue, of 54 years, who survives along with daughter, Amy, operated Fat Chap’s Restaurant on the outskirts of Emlenton for over 12 years. Countless local patrons enjoyed his cheerful smile and conversation while dining at Fat Chap’s.

He even planned and built the home he and Sue resided in after the original farm house burned to the ground 23 years ago.

Donald was a respected father to five children, Suzie (Brian Bergholz) of W. Salem, OH, Becky (Rich Ruckdeshel) of Bradford, Brian Shultz (Nancy) of Awendaw, SC, Amy (Kelly Richmond) of Emlenton, and Hannah (Ken Staab) of Virginia Beach, VA. He leaves behind 12 grieving grandchildren, Jessica, Brandon, Patrick, Emily, Kevin, Ryan, Eric, Ben, Emma, Sarah, Katie, and Zak; 8 great grandchildren, Elaina, Evan, Dylan, Brooklyn, Tyler, Parker, Lauren, and Alyssa, who will miss his humor, songs, and wisdom, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind many loyal friends who were with him until the end.

Friends will be received at the Hile Funeral Home Inc., 1204 Kerr Ave., Emlenton, Friday, May 27 from Noon – 3 and 6 – 9 p.m. A funeral mass will be celebrated Saturday at 1:00 p.m. at St. Michael The Archangel Roman Catholic Church, 811 Chestnut St., Emlenton, with the Rev. William R. Barron, church pastor, officiating. Interment will follow at St. Michael Cemetery, Emlenton. For additional information or to send a condolence, please visit www.hilefh.com.

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