James R. Schultz
James Schultz, 83, of McGregor, died Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2020, at Great River Care Center in McGregor, after a long illness. James Richard was born March 28, 1937 at the McGregor Community Hospital in McGregor, the son of Earl and Maude (Pare) Schultz. The family lived in the small town of Giard while his dad worked as a hired man for the Gold Mine Farm. In 1947, Jim’s parents purchased their own farm west of McGregor where Jim attended country school through the eighth grade. He graduated from McGregor High School in 1955. Jim helped his dad on the farm and also worked for other area farmers. He also drove a canned milk truck route for the McGregor Cooperative Creamery. He then joined and served six years in the Army National Guard. Jim also worked at Moe’s Courtesy Corner gas station in McGregor and drove a school bus route for Mar-Mac School for a couple of years and drove a delivery route for Scotlin Ceramics.
Jim was united in marriage with Margaret Schroeder on Sept. 19, 1964. They purchased a farm west of McGregor and together farmed and raised their two children. Jim spent a lot of time making sure there were always good fences on his land. In later years, he helped his wife Margaret at Maggie’s Diner adjacent to their farm. Jim was an avid NASCAR fan and also went to races in the area. He enjoyed Friday night cards at the McGregor Legion Club, was an AMVETS member and also a member of the Giard United Methodist Church, where he served on various boards. Jim had a large American Flyer train collection which he spent a lot of time working on in later years. They also spent time doing some traveling and spending time with family.
Surviving Jim are his wife, Margaret; daughter, Sarah (Kyle) Zieser of Independence; son, Steven (Angela) Schultz of Imperial Beach, Calif.; and six grandchildren, Katie, Richard and Joe Zieser and Nathan, Sam and Emma Schultz. He is also survived by his sister, Joanne (Lowell) Stewart; brother-in-law, David (Betty) Schroeder; sisters-in-law, Karen (Terry) Foran, Annette (Charlie) Schroeder and Joyce (Dave Horstmann; and many nieces and nephews.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Maude Schultz; and a brother who died in infancy.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Mar-Mac Fire and Rescue or Crossing Rivers Hospice.
A special thank you to the Great River Care Center and Crossing Rivers Health Hospice for the loving care and support.
Thornburg-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of McGregor is assisting the family with arrangements.
