Richard J. Schulz

May 19, 1944 - December 11, 2025

Richard J. Schulz, affectionately known as "Pa" to family and friends, passed away on December 11, 2025. Born on May 19, 1944, Richard grew up in Huntington, New York, where he attended Saint Anthony's High School before earning his Bachelor of Science in Economics from Hawthorne College in Keene, New Hampshire.

After college, Richard opened automotive repair stations on Long Island. He was drafted into the U.S. Army and served as a Motor Officer overseeing a fleet of vehicles for a MASH unit based in Cameron Bay, Vietnam. Returning home, he continued to own and operate his automotive repair stations and maintained his lifelong love of cars. He later moved to Manhattan's Upper West Side for 13 years before settling in Granville, New York, where he became a beloved pillar of the community.

Together with his wife Luisa, known as "Ma," Richard, known as "Pa," owned and operated Ma and Pa's Place, a cherished pizzeria and Italian restaurant in Granville. While Ma crafted authentic Italian dishes, Pa made the pizzas that locals still talk about.

Pa's warmth and charisma touched everyone he met. Known for his dad jokes and storytelling, he kept conversations humorous and made people feel welcome wherever he went. His generosity was legendary in Granville, where he dedicated countless hours volunteering at the local food pantry and could often be found enjoying breakfast at the Pine Grove with friends.

A man who believed deeply in community and service, Richard was a founding member of the Granville Men's Club and an active member of the Knights of Columbus, Freemasons, Eagles Club, Vagabond Club, VFW, and American Legion.

Richard is survived by his wife, Luisa Schulz; his daughter, Stacey Stiffler, and her husband Rick Stiffler; his son, Richard Schulz, and his wife Cindy Schulz; his grandchildren, Emiley Stiffler, Lily Stiffler, and Catie Stiffler; and his beloved feral-turned-faithful-companion, Rusty.

His legacy of kindness, humor, and service will live on in the hearts of everyone whose lives he touched.