Ben Lee Schultz

Ben L Schultz, 89, Springfield, MO, passed away at 8:15 a.m. Thursday, August 14, 2025, in Springfield, MO, at his home.

He was born October 22, 1935, in Bartlesville, OK, to Orville and Silvia (Pottiger) Schultz. He attended College High School, class of 1954.

While working for IBM in Jefferson City, MO, he met the love of his life, Pat Nilges. Ben knew from the moment he met Pat; he was going to marry her. After a short courtship, they were married on September 2, 1983. Pat has always been Ben’s biggest supporter and #1 fan.

Ben was a veteran, enlisting in 1953 in the U.S. Navy, during the Korean War. He honorably served his country until the end of his tour in 1956. He received honors for his service. We always enjoyed hearing his stories about the men he served with on the submarine, the “Rasher”, and proud to call them brothers.

Mr. Schultz worked for 38 years for IBM. During this time, he taught IBM School and was a Field Manager at the time of his retirement in 1985. In retirement he worked for Cardinal Health and O’Reilly’s. He enjoyed playing cards on Sunday afternoon with his mother-in-law and Pat’s aunt. He enjoyed fishing with friends in Carthage, MO and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He loved to play jokes on people, especially those he loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Shirley Joann, and brother, Donny Wayne. His son, Russell passed away three years ago with Pancreatic cancer.

He is survived by his wife, Pat Schultz; his children, Joe Roque, Lisa Butler, Michelle Reinsch, Donna Masters and grandsons.

Funeral services will be at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 10th, 2025, at the Messiah Lutheran Church 925 E. Seminole with Orin Cummings officiating. The burial will take place at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery located at Lake Springfield.

Permanent online condolences, stories and photos may be shared at www.hhlohmeyer.com.