Richard W. “Pop” Schutz, 82, of Middletown, died on or about Sept. 1, 2024. He was born July 5, 1942, in Elizabeth and lived in the same house in Middletown since 1972.
Richard worked as a truck driver for over 40 years before retiring from Linden Motor Freight in 2003. To pass the time, Pop began working as a crossing guard for Middletown Township for five years.
Richard was a beloved man known for his kindness, humor and deep care for others. Affectionately called “The Mayor” by those who knew him in the neighborhood, he had an incredible ability to connect with everyone he met, whether it was neighbors, friends or a passerby. Conversations with him, often sparked by a simple walk by his house, could easily turn into hour-plus-long discussions about RV shows, motorcycles, politics, classic cars, grandchildren or any of life’s little joys. He especially cherished time with his family and found endless joy in hearing about his grandchildren’s latest adventures, from their school days to sports accomplishments to their professional lives as some have now begun their careers.
Pop loved nothing more than spending time with his family – a “family” that extended far beyond traditional blood ties. It included everyone who knew him and anyone with whom he struck up a conversation. His laughter and stories were infectious, leaving everyone in stitches or struggling for a comeback.
He was happiest hanging out with the boys at the Harbor, enjoying a meal at the Americana Diner, especially their Hungarian goulash, or simply swapping tales. His love for his neighbors was genuine and he always made time to check in on their lives, showing genuine concern for their well-being.
Richard will be remembered for his honesty, his jokes and his big heart, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter and joy in every life he touched.
Surviving are his two sons, Richard W. and his wife Stacy Schutz and Christopher L. and his wife Tara Schutz; six grandchildren, Casey, Erin, Patrick, Julia, Rebecca, and Liam; sister-in-law Bonnie and her husband Glen Trevino; nieces, Susan Henel and her husband Bill and Khristina Estes and her husband Oliver; and nephews Steven Petersen, Arthur W. Stutzman Jr. and his wife Nancy and James Mitchell Jr. and his wife Sarah.
Richard was preceded in death by his wife of 39 years, Patricia T. Schutz; sister Georgiann “Bonnie” Stutzman; sister Elva “Nickie” Caruso Peterson; and parents, Richard and Cecilia Schutz Filippone.
Visitation and funeral services were held Sept. 9 at John F. Pfleger Funeral Home, Middletown.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in Richard’s name to the Monmouth County SPCA at monmouthcountyspca.org.
The article originally appeared in the September 19 – 25, 2024 print edition of The Two River Times.
