Phyllis Patricia Schultz (née Hein)

Mrs. Phyllis Patricia Schultz (née Hein), age 86, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026, in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, the city where she was born on May 3, 1939. A devoted Christian and lifelong resident of Manitowoc, Phyllis lived a life rooted in faith, family, and service to others.

Phyllis dedicated many years of her life to nurturing young minds as a teacher’s aide at Bethany Lutheran Church in Manitowoc. Her deep connection to the church extended beyond her professional role—Bethany Lutheran was her spiritual home and a cornerstone of her life. Her devotion to children was evident not only in her work but also in the countless hours she spent teaching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren how to bake and sew, passing down cherished traditions with love and patience.

Before her time at Bethany Lutheran, Phyllis worked at Mirror Aluminum, contributing to the local workforce with diligence and pride. Yet it was through her creative talents that she truly left an indelible mark. A gifted seamstress and quilt maker, Phyllis poured her heart into every stitch. Her handmade quilts, crocheted pieces, and knitted crafts were more than just beautiful—they were acts of love that she freely gave to others. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the irresistible aroma of what many would call the best cookies and raised dough in the world.

In 1985, Phyllis married Dale R. Schultz, her soulmate and loving partner until his passing in 2004. Together they built a life centered on faith and family.

Phyllis’s legacy lives on through her beloved children: Sandra Ruminski (Mike), Susan Gauthier (Steve), Steven Koch (Debbie), Keith Koch (Jeanna), and Kevin Koch (Maryanne). She was a proud grandmother to Tim Ruminski (Madi), Drew Alexander (Sara), Jacob Koch, Elizabeth Koch, Greg Koch (Savana), and Keith Koch; and a cherished great-grandmother to Elijah Fabian, Sophia Dietz, Quinn Alexander, Brady Alexander—and joyfully anticipated the arrival of another great-granddaughter in just seven weeks.

She will be deeply missed by her sister Margie Freiberg, sisters-in-law Jalaine Naumann (Rev. James), Jana Olm (Ron), Dion Schultz (Sandi), and James Schultz (Sandy); as well as by numerous nieces and nephews who were touched by her kindness. Her special longtime friend Barb LeCloux held a unique place in her heart.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband Dale R. Schultz; sisters Patricia Leach, Eileen Jarvis, mother Caroline Hein; and father Raymond “Peter” Hein.

Among her many accomplishments was winning the Green Bay Press Gazette Bowling Tournament in 1973—a testament to both her competitive spirit and zest for life.

Phyllis lived selflessly—always giving more than she received—and found joy in sharing her talents with others. Whether through a warm quilt wrapped around a loved one or a batch of cookies shared over conversation, she made those around her feel cared for. Christmas was always a special time and she made every Christmas special for the family.

A private funeral service will be held in spring, honoring Phyllis’s life. We ask that in lieu of any flowers, please do a random act of kindness in her honor. She always thought of others above herself.

As we remember Phyllis Schultz—a woman of unwavering faith whose hands created beauty and whose heart gave endlessly—we take comfort in the words she held dear: “We walk by faith and not by sight.” – II Corinthians 5:7

May her memory bring peace to all who knew and loved her.