Joseph W. "Joe" Schulz

Joseph W. “Joe” Schulz entered into the presence of Jesus, surrounded by his loving family, on September 11, 2025, following an 18-month battle with Glioblastoma. Joe lived his cancer journey full of faith and purpose. He made it his mission to touch people lives with Jesus’ love and light at every opportunity.

Born in Hinsdale, Illinois, on May 20, 1957, he was the son of the late John and Betty Mary (Haupt) Schulz. Joe graduated from Auburn High School in Rockford, Illinois, where he met the love of his life, Julie K. Frantz. Their relationship continued as they both attended Baptist Bible College, where Joe earned his pastoral degree. Joe and Julie were married on December 17, 1977, and celebrated nearly 48 years of loving marriage and ministry together.

Joe faithfully served his Lord and Savior throughout his life. He began his ministry as a youth pastor in Michigan for 4 years, then served as a college pastor in California, where they lived for 10 years. In 1992, he and his family moved to Ohio, where he was an Associate Pastor for 16 years at First Baptist Church in New Philadelphia. He went on to serve 14 years as the Adult Ministries Director at NewPointe Community Church, retiring in 2023.

Joe had a love for the outdoors—especially in warm weather. He enjoyed fishing, bike riding, kayaking, the beach, and wintering in Sarasota, Florida. But his greatest fulfillment came from ministry and leading people to a deeper relationship with God. Joe loved quality time with his family and dear friends. Above everything in his life, Joe was most proud of his kids: Nikole and Andy. He will be forever cherished by his wife, Julie Schulz; his children, Nikole Garabrandt, and her children Livia, Rush, and Blake; and Dr. Andy (Sierra) Schulz, their children Jack and Ainsley, and their baby girl expected in October.

Joe is also survived by his siblings: Michael (Bambi), David (Maralynda), Mona, Bob, and Barbara Schulz; his mother-in-law; his sisters- and brothers-in-law, and was dearly loved by many nieces and nephews who complete his family.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 18, 2025 at NewPointe Community Church from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. A Memorial Service celebrating Joe’s life will take place at the church on Friday at 10:30 a.m.

In gratitude for the compassionate care Joe and his family received, memorial contributions may be directed to: Ohio’s Hospice, 716 Commercial Ave SW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.