Donald J. Schulte

Donald James Schulte
1941-2019

Donald James Schulte, age 78, of Atlanta, Georgia, stepped into eternity with the Lord on Sunday, May 5, in the comfort of his home of nearly 40 years. Don was born on January 1, 1941, to Ed and Ceil Schulte in Pine Island, Minnesota.

After graduating from high school, college, and dental school, Don left Minnesota to join the U.S. Air Force as a dentist and officer. His first duty station was in Cape Canaveral, Florida, where his patients included several U.S. Astronauts. After concluding his military service, he decided to settle in the South, because, as he would jokingly explain, he had grown fond of not shoveling Minnesota snow. He moved to Atlanta to open a dental practice where he met his lovely wife of nearly 49 years, Betty, and raised two children. He retired from dentistry after over 45 years, leaving behind a legacy of patients and staff who loved his wit, kindness, and expertise.

His family and those who knew him best were blessed by his jolly and forgiving nature and his amazing sense of humor. For someone who had been given so many talents, Don was a humble man who was never afraid to laugh at himself. He loved people for who God made them and was quick to open his home and give his time whenever called upon. The Lord used Don in so many ways whether it was teaching English through the Bible, listening to and giving wise counsel to those around him, modeling kindness and forgiveness, or being his grandchildren’s favorite “homeschool professor” after retiring from dentistry. His relationship with Christ guided him through his years as a faithful husband, loving father, and intentional grandfather. He was someone who somehow always knew a little about everything and enjoyed learning whether it was Bible study, current events, or even homeschooling text books.

Some of Don’s favorite moments were spent outdoors whether it was camping with his family at the lake, Sunday afternoon picnics, golfing with his life-long buddies, or long motorcycle trips with his twin brother, Dave. He is survived by his wife, Betty; son, Jimmy; daughter and son-in-law, Julie and Bart Newman; grandchildren, Kate, Luke, Lyla, and Elise Newman; sister, Mary Honz; and brother, Dave.

We would like to thank all of our family and many dear friends who have walked through this time with us and offered encouragement, prayers, meals, love, and help in whatever way was needed. God has been so gracious to us and we are thankful for each of you.

Funeral services will be held at A.S. Turner & Sons (2773 N. Decatur Road, Decatur, GA 30033) on Friday, May 10, at 3:00. Visitation will be immediately before the service from 1:00 to 3:00 at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Campus Crusade for Christ (Cru: www.cru.org).