Scott Michael Schulze

Scott Michael Schulze October 20, 1978 – August 5, 2025

Scott Michael Schulze, 46, of Independence, Missouri, passed away peacefully on the morning of August 5, 2025. Born on October 20, 1978, in Independence, Scott brought joy, humor, and a generous spirit into the lives of everyone who knew him.

Scott graduated from Truman High School in 1997 and attended Missouri State University in Springfield. Throughout his life, he remained curious, thoughtful, and eager to connect with others in meaningful ways. His professional path included time as a financial advisor and later as a personal trainer—both careers that reflected his desire to help others improve their lives, whether financially or physically.

Known for his easygoing nature and infectious laugh, Scott had a unique ability to make people feel at ease. He found happiness in the simple pleasures: working in the garden, listening to music, creating art, traveling, and spending time with his family and dogs. His love for animals ran deep, especially for his four dogs, with whom he shared a strong bond—most notably his loyal companion, Cane.

Family was at the center of Scott’s world. He was a devoted husband, a proud and loving father, and a caring son, brother, uncle, and friend. He is survived by his wife, Julie Satterfield; his children, Sofia Schulze, Michael Schulze, Jesse Satterfield, Levi Satterfield, and Lindsey Satterfield; his parents, Paul and Michaela Schulze; his brother, Toby Schulze and wife Jennifer; and his niece and nephews, Jamison, Olivia, Aiden, and Asher. He also leaves behind many extended family members, dear friends, and his cherished dogs.

Scott will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humor, and the genuine way he showed up for the people he loved. Whether through a thoughtful conversation, a helping hand, or simply his warm presence, he made a lasting impact. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Shirley Renaud, and grandparents, Gerhard and Irene Schulze.

A visitation will be held Monday, August 11, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Speaks Suburban Chapel in Independence, Missouri. A funeral service will follow on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the same location.

Though Scott’s time with us was far too short, the memories he created and the love he shared will continue to live on in all of us.

Read Below for Scott's Funeral Service

A death has occurred, and everything is changed by the event.

We are painfully aware that life can never be the same again,

That yesterday is over, that relationships once rich have ended.

But there is another way to look upon this truth.

If life went on the same without the presence of the one who has died,

We could only conclude that the life we remember

Made no contribution, filled no space, meant absolutely nothing.

The fact that the person left behind a place, a void

That cannot be filled is a high tribute to this individual.

Life can be the same after a trinket has been lost,

But never after the loss of a treasure. (Paul Irion)

Welcome: The recent passing of a highly valued treasure, Scott Schulze, is the event that brings us here today, but our purpose in gathering is far different. In the brief amount of time we will share with one another, there will be opportunities to both offer and receive support, a time to remember, a time to laugh, and perhaps a time to cry. We will remember Scott through the telling of his story, by listening to music specifically chosen for this event, and we will begin the process of transforming these things into fond memories…memories that will last a lifetime. All of this will be done to honor Scott’s amazing life and to celebrate the unique and special contributions he made to each of your lives. Ladies and gentlemen, my name is Kent Eaton, and it is my honor to lead this celebration of life, to tell Scott’s story, and to assist you in remembering the special bond…the special connection you shared with him.

Scott enjoyed listening to a wide range of musical styles…from classic rock to reggae and more…so for this service family members have chosen to include three songs…songs that will not only reflect his personality but may express some of the thoughts and emotions they are experiencing today. To begin, let’s listen to Pink Floyd as they perform “Wish You Were Here,” and if you have not already done so, this would be an excellent time to silence your cell phones and other electronic devices.

Song #1: Wish You Were Here

Eulogy:

The story of Scott Michael Schulze began on October 20, 1978, when he was born in Independence, Missouri. The second of two children born to Paul and Michaela Renaud Schulze, Scott grew up in Eastern Jackson County alongside his older brother, Toby.

As a child, adolescent, and teenager, Scott attended Independence Public Schools including Truman High School. Blessed with God-given athletic abilities, Scott gained a tremendous amount of notoriety as a standout member of the Truman High School basketball team. At other times throughout the year, especially when the high school basketball season had finished, Scott then played on a local AAU basketball team…a team that was coached by his father. When he was not busy playing basketball, attending classes, or working on his assignments, Scott was typically in the weight room working out.

Soon after graduating as a proud member of the Truman High School Class of 1997, Scott enrolled in classes at Missouri State University in Springfield. Scott ultimately graduated from Missouri State University with a Bachelor of Exercise Science degree, a course of study on which he would eventually base his life’s work and career.

In addition to chasing after a college degree, Scott also spent his time on the Springfield campus pursuing a relationship with a young lady…a friendship he initially developed back at Truman High School. Becoming friends while both were attending the same high school, Scott and Lori Martin followed one another to the MSU campus. As time progressed, both Scott and Lori fell in love and got married. Even though their marriage ended years later in divorce, this relationship provided Scott with two wonderful blessings…his children: Sofia and Michael.

Shortly after earning his college diploma, Scott returned to Jackson County where he accepted a job working as a financial planner at Martin Tax and Financial Services in Lee’s Summit…a company owned by his then father-in-law, Mike Martin. To better prepare himself for becoming a financial advisor, Scott attended and successfully completed a course of study led by Harry S. Dent Jr., an economic forecaster who uses demographics as a key tool in helping others with their investments. As a financial planner for Martin Tax and Financial Services, Scott performed his job wonderfully. An esteemed member of the International Association of Registered Financial Consultants, Scott received numerous awards and plaques recognizing his many achievements.

Eventually, Scott resigned from his position as a Financial Advisor. It was at that time he created and started his own business as a personal trainer. As he had done before, Scott dedicated himself to his work and quickly accrued a large list of clients. Having attained the prestigious classification of Pro-League in the International Federation of Bodybuilders, Scott was well prepared and well equipped to train others who wanted to better develop their physique or figure as well as their level of fitness and wellness.

On many occasions, Scott would travel to various places throughout the United States to compete in bodybuilding competitions. At other times, though, Scott would travel with his clients to assist them as they participated in competitions. On one such occasion, Scott was at Harrah’s Casino in Kansas City coaching a few of his clients who were preparing to participate in a local bodybuilding competition. At the same time he was assisting his clients, Scott was also looking around the room…sizing up the competitors his clients would face. It was at that moment Scott spotted a beautiful lady named Julie Satterfield, a single mother of three. Only a few minutes elapsed before Scott approached Julie and introduced himself to her. Moments later, when he returned to his original post, Scott told his clients, “One day I’m going to marry that woman.” Almost immediately after their initial meeting, Scott and Julie began seeing one another on a regular basis, and before long, their casual friendship had blossomed into a loving relationship. Finally, on July 1, 2022, Scott and Julie not only declared their love for but pledged their lives to one another when they exchanged their marriage vows. Even before he took Julie to be his wife, Scott accepted her three children and treated them as though they were his very own. When his life ended one week ago, Scott and Julie had shared life together for nearly eight years…three of those years as husband and wife.

Lifting weights and bodybuilding were just two of Scott’s favorite hobbies. When he was not busy working out, Scott enjoyed planting and maintaining a flower garden...one which featured big, beautiful elephant ear plants he would often transplant from his mother’s flower bed. To accompany those elephant ear plants, Scott would then add beautiful flowers of various shapes and sizes and in an array of colors. Each year, when it came to selecting flowers, Scott always chose to plant annuals because he loved digging in the dirt, getting his hands in the soil, and planting each individual plant. Scott was also extremely proud of his and Julie’s sycamore tree…a wild growing tree he transplanted from one obscure area to a more prominent location in their yard.

Having acquired artistic abilities from his mother, Scott also enjoyed creating art: drawing cartoon characters, pictures of wildlife, and scenic landscapes. Because beavers were his favorite animal, Scott also spent hours on end drawing detailed pictures of those wooly creatures. Scott’s artistic abilities also included some serious musical talents. In his spare time, Scott enjoyed playing the guitar as well.

Scott also supported two local sports franchises…namely the Kansas City Chiefs and the Kansas City Royals. Scott supported these teams during the best of times as well as the worst times. Scott cheered for these teams whether they were Division Champions or considered the worst team in their respective leagues. In addition, Scott especially enjoyed March Madness…perhaps his favorite season of the year.

When Scott wanted to rest and relax, he would often sit in his favorite chair, pick up his remote control, and watch television. Among the favorite shows he and Julie enjoyed watching were Stranger Things and Game of Thrones. As stated earlier, when it came to music, Scott much preferred listening to Rock or Reggae…especially to bands like Death Tones, Tool, Pink Floyd, and Incubus.

As much as he enjoyed gardening, creating art, playing the guitar, supporting the Chiefs and Royals, the thrill of March Madness, watching television programs, and listening to music, what Scott loved the very most was his family. Scott loved Julie with his entire being…he enjoyed the time they spent together; he treasured the memories they created together; and he loved the combined family they shared together. Scott especially enjoyed his and Julie’s numerous travels to such places as the Bahamas, Bora-Bora, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. For Scott, every trip was a thrilling adventure.

Likewise, Scott loved his children with his whole heart…he was proud to be their father; he was thrilled to have had a part in raising them; and he was elated to watch them grow into the fine, young adults they have become. Scott loved spending time with his family. Whether he was enjoying the great outdoors, strolling through Powell Gardens, or soaking in the rays on the beach of Destin, Florida...Scott always felt the time spent was more enjoyable and memorable if it were spent with his family. For Scott, the holidays were often his most gratifying, for it was during those times that all five children were under the same roof…a rare occasion when those he loved the most were all together in one location.

Scott’s love of family was not limited to just his immediate family, for he loved his extended family as well. Scott loved his parents very much; he appreciated the ways they provided for his needs while he was young and supported him throughout his entire life. In much the same way, Scott cherished all he shared with his brother and especially enjoyed the love of his sister-in-law, niece, and nephews.

A discussion of family would not be complete without mentioning four other members of the Schulze household, Scott’s four dogs: Molly, Rue, Bear, and his loyal companion, Cane.

Scott was easy going, laid back, and joyful…he was often relaxed, calm, and at ease. Scott was funny, humorous, and possessed an infectious laugh…he loved to laugh, and he enjoyed making those around him laugh as well. Scott was thoughtful, kind, and generous…he often placed the needs of other before his very own. Scott was curious, efficient, protective and genuine…there has never been, nor will there ever be one exactly like him.

In recent months, Scott found himself hospitalized on five separate occasions: three times due to injuries sustained in a car accident…the other two times related to issues with pneumonia. In July, during one of his more recent hospitalizations, Scott received some devastating news: a diagnosis of congestive heart failure. Even though everyone was fully aware of the seriousness of his condition, it was still shocking when, on Tuesday, August 5, the life of this incredible man came to a sudden and abrupt end…for on that day, while enjoying the comforts of his own home, Scott’s lungs grew weak, his heart stopped beating, and he took his final breath. When he died, Scott was just forty-six years old; and I believe everyone here today would agree that his life ended way too soon. Scott is survived by:

Wife: Julie Satterfield (his wife of three years)

Children: Sofia Schulze, Michael Schulze,

Jesse Satterfield, Levi Satterfield, & Lindsey Satterfield

Parents: Paul & Michaela Schulze

Brother: Toby Schulze (his wife, Jennifer)

Niece/Nephews: Jamison, Olivia, Aiden, and Asher

Extended Family and Friends

His Dogs: Molly, Rue, Bear, and Cane

Scott was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother (Shirley Renaud) and her paternal grandparents (Gerhard and Irene Schulze).

I invite you now to listen to “Wish You Were Here” as performed by Incubus.

Song #2: Wish You Were Here

A Time to Remember:

Uncle: Eric Renaud

Eulogy for Scott

By Erik Renaud

I’ve known my nephew, Scott, since his birth. I babysat. I visited with him on trips back to KC. When he was a young adult, we spent time together sharing common interests. For a while, he and I both drove the same model red sports car. We both loved financial talk about stocks and companies and would message each other about stocks that moved fast like Baidu or Amazon or companies going public at the time like Facebook. We connected in a variety of ways and looked for more ways to keep that going. There’s something special about having a non-parental relationship between the generations… all the good stuff and none of the obligations; none of the complicated stuff… for either of us!

In 2015, after living away, life led me back to Kansas City. My own situation had become challenging - I wanted to come home to be with my family. I think it was after Christmas dinner that I turned to Scott and told him I wanted to get in shape and asked if he would be interested in training me. (Again, is there nothing cooler than reversing the roles between generations? I loved the idea of having Scott coach and mentor me.) It wasn’t long afterwards that we began working together several times a week in Toby’s gym in Lee’s Summit. Scott created a challenging routine for me, doing sets of lifts for each body part and keeping me moving between sets with cardio. I’d lifted for decades, but he had an approach that I wasn’t familiar with. He gave me a diet to follow. As time passed, the results began to show. To Scott’s credit, instead of things getting boring over time, the increasingly hard workouts and diets became the highlights of my week. Scott had me following a regimen of various nutritional and workout supplements, and my kitchen counters had become cluttered with bins of protein powder and shaker bottles. At one point, he would tell me; remove stress from your life, and your results will come faster. Huh? Wah? Stress? What does that have to do with bodybuilding? He was right.

We were family, so it became very easy to talk about what was happening personally – sharing with each other during our training sessions. After a time, we occasionally worked out together. When you’re family, you know the other person truly loves and cares about you without question, so our workouts became personal; almost therapeutic as we poured out our lives to each other. We’d share our joys and our frustrations, and before you knew it, the exhausting workout was over and I was driving home, looking forward to the next workout day. I got in the best shape of my life in the process.

A few years into this, Scott invited me to the Midland Theatre downtown to watch a bodybuilding competition. He had a few clients who were competing and knew many of the other participants. We’d talked about the bodybuilding culture over the years, and because I was his trainee, I was interested in understanding more about what had captured Scott’s and Toby’s hearts, souls, and passion. While waiting in the ticket line, I was surrounded by very fit, confident individuals. They had goals; they’d built a plan; they’d eaten what was necessary, singlehandedly holding up the entire chicken-breast industry, hydrated well each day, carrying their gallon water bottles wherever they went, taken their supplements and vitamins to ensure they had everything they needed and nothing they didn’t, and they’d put in the work at the gym, and outside of the gym. If you’ve ever been a bodybuilder, or been close to one, you know it isn’t a merely a hobby; it reaches into every part of your being. It is a way of life.

I went in, and saw Scott working a booth for his sponsor; giving away samples of protein power and other supplements, perhaps a tee-shirt. He had that big famous smile on his face, and he greeted me with a hug. Scott loved telling people I was his uncle, and watching for the looks on their faces. I knew he was busy, so I grabbed my seat and the program began. The first competitor came out and struck a few poses to execute his routine. I was surprised because this person was older than I was expecting and was in good, but not great shape. The announcer told of this person’s history; he’d been competing consistently for years. Frankly, I was wondering how he could compete with all of these beautifully buff and younger contestants. I thought he’d get a mediocre response from the audience. I was 100% wrong. With every pose, the audience responded with wild cheering, indicating their approval, delight, and support for the long journey this competitor had taken. As he neared the end of this routine, the cheering only intensified. At the end, he was given a standing ovation and that blew me away. The program continued with increasingly younger and buffer and more beautiful people. The audience enthusiasm didn’t change – they voiced strong support and approval with every competitor. They cheered loudly whether the person on stage was a beginner, intermediate, advanced or professional contestant. They could be young or old. The event left a real impression on me.

This is a culture built around drive and determination and the willingness to take on seemingly impossible goals. It’s full of people who are willing to look critically at every aspect of themselves; mind, body, nutrition, and actions, and critically identify what could be better, and courageously make whatever changes are necessary. It’s a mistake to underestimate what I’ve just described. Too often, people are afraid to look critically at themselves and admit they can be better – whether in managing their physique or any other aspect of their lives. It’s a culture grounded in personal responsibility and taking action; two things I’ve always embraced in my own life, but took to a new level because of the time I spent with Scott. He embodied this ethic. I understand why Scott was drawn to the bodybuilding culture and practice.

Scott and I had both experienced some challenges in our lives. I mentioned this earlier. Whether it was chest day, back day, shoulders day or whatever, it was always LIFE-day. We started our days together with a hug and that famous smile and sense of humor. As we got to work, we talked about our challenges and frustrations outside of the gym. And we’d ask each other the key questions and challenge each other’s perspectives. And we did something comfortably that it can be very hard for people to do… we called each other on things that didn’t make sense. We’d be talking about something that led to a frustration, an argument, a fight, a breakup - with a parent, sibling, friend, or romantic partner. And we’d ask each other – WHAT WERE YOU THINKING? Instead of being defensive, we’d react to each other with “I don’t know” or “yes, you’re right” or “I can do better”. True to the bodybuilding culture, we took a critical look at what needed improvement and took action. And we finished our workouts the way we started – with big smiles!

To my delightful surprise, my training with Scott gave me so much more than increased muscle mass and lower body fat. Right when we needed it, Scott and I mentored each other; nurtured each other; and improved each other with the familial smiles and laughs that conveyed trust and love. Without realizing it, Scott and I came together just when we needed each other. I’ll cherish the time we spent together, and he will live forever in my heart.

• Aunt: Nicole Swift

Scott Michael Schulze

Where do I begin?

I love you, Scott.

It’s hard to believe we’re here—together, in this moment, for this reason. I keep hoping to wake up, but the nightmare continues. Accepting that you’re no longer here? Maybe one day. For now, I look at the faces of those you loved so deeply, and who loved you just as fiercely and I will try to express to you what is in my heart this morning.

I like to think Scott and I shared something special. The conversations, the emotions, the quiet understanding between us—I’ve always cherished them. There are people in life for whom time and distance don’t matter. With Scott, those boundaries felt faint, almost invisible. Even if we went too long without talking or texting, it never changed anything. We always picked up right where we left off. We confided in each other. We just understood.

I feel so lucky that my relationship with Scott wasn’t just aunt and nephew—it was a true friendship. I was a teenager when Scotty was born (and it took me years to stop calling him that). Mimi used to say my nieces and nephews saw me as their age, not an adult. That’s not exactly true—but I am lucky. They’ve always felt like real friends to me. And that’s who Scott was. Every time I saw him, or even heard his name, my heart melted.

Moments before I found out about Scott’s passing, I was looking through old family photos. I had put a few aside to find a frame for and to show to Mica. There he was – right in front of me. I’m looking at a picture of Scott as I’m finding out the news about him. I’ll never forget the disbelief of the moment. It felt surreal.

15 years ago, Steve & I renewed our vows in Jamaica. We invited our entire family, several close friends and everyone who was in our wedding party. Scott and my son, Andrew, got to spend quite a bit of quality time together while in Jamaica and I know they always treasured that. I treasured it too because I think there is no other relationship like that of cousins who are friends. It can be a strong connection.

When I started thinking about what I want to share with all of you this morning, I struggled with what should I talk about that would make Scott proud. I was at a loss and only drew a blank. I asked myself a few questions. Subject? Obviously Scott. From whose perspective? Mine. What’s the story you want to tell? Do you want to tell a funny story or anecdote you shared with Scott? Do you want to let everyone know how wonderful, kind and special Scott was? Everyone sitting here knows that already. All I can do is share my personal thoughts so I hope you don’t mind if I share my love letter to Scott from me.

Dear, dear Scott,

We always had high hopes and a genuine desire to get together every time I came to Kansas City. Since I arrived here this past Friday, I’ve done that thing when you forget for only a split second that your loved one is no longer here… I had the thought of “I’ve got to let Scott know I’m here so I can see if we can get together.” Then I remembered... We tried. Sometimes it worked out, many times it did not. I love that that didn’t seem to interfere with the ties that bonded us.

Scott, we shared so many feelings and emotions. One big thing we have in common is that we are both full of our feelings. It was very easy to share those feelings with you because of that. I put us in the category of BIG mushballs. I loved that we could talk to each other so easily. Open honesty and complete trust. That’s what you have been to me for all these years. Thank you.

I know you remember that conversation we had when you gave me a ride to the airport. How one conversation that lasted about 45 minutes could stay with us forever? I don’t know. This was us and I so appreciated you for that. We always said we could say anything to each other, and we often did. I’m going to miss that.

One of my fondest memories of you, Scott, was the first time I brought Steve home to meet the family. You, Toby and Steve played baseball (or some form of it) in the side yard at Mimi’s house. Watching the three of you play ball together, contributed to what made me fall in love with Steve. The 3 of you were so sweet together. From that day on, Steve always asked about how and what you guys were doing. It’s a beautiful memory for me. You & Toby were just being your sweet 3- and 5-year-old selves. I think Steve fell in love with you before he fell in love with me! Fact!

I’m sorry that I let too much precious time go by without reaching out to you directly. I always knew what was happening with you through Mica but that wasn’t good enough. I know that was our usual way but shame on me for letting time slip away recently. It’s been a while since we had one of our talks. I regret that.

I so loved the way you acknowledged my babies just as I did yours. There was not one conversation where you did not tell me how beautiful Ashley is (once she got past (in yours and Toby’s eyes the Alf phase – we all still laugh about that), or what a “cool guy” Andrew was to hang with or asking about what Nicholas was up to – interested in all the details. There was not one conversation that didn’t involve a Sofia and Michael update. And of course, once they came into your life, Julie, Jesse, Levi, and Lindsay – every conversation.

Thank you for always making me feel so special and loved. The way you supported me with my art meant so much to me. Always encouraging. Always my cheerleader. Always gave me too much credit but I was there for it. I always loved your art too and will treasure the piece you made for us when we renewed our vows. You are one of the most beautiful souls I’ve ever known. No wonder why God wanted you home with him. You were just too good for this world. I pray you are at peace.

I love you, Scott. I will miss you in ways that only we know. Watch over us.

Love, always and forever,

Nikki

In closing… I found a beautiful quote that really spoke to me…

“Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. For those who love with heart and soul, there is no separation.” — Rumi

Nothing is more important than love. If given the chance, if we are open to it, I believe love & faith will carry us through everything in life. Faith – maybe religious faith, maybe faith in humanity in general or maybe just some good old fashion faith in each other. Let’s all do that. Going forward, in Scott’s honor, let’s live our lives drenched in love. Let’s suck the nectar out of each opportunity we have to be together. Let’s make sure we make that phone call, take time for that visit and let the loves in our lives know how important they are to us. Wouldn’t that be wonderful if we all did that and if we encouraged all the people in our lives to do the same? My plan is to do better. It’s never too late. Life is beautiful – even with the pains and challenges we encounter; we have the power to choose to be a positive difference in someone’s life. That’s who Scott is and always will be to me. A source of light and love.

A bright light went out in my life last week. However, I will continue to always hold my beloved “Scotty” close in my heart.

Message:

Thousands of years ago, there was an Old Testament king by the name of David. Long before he became the King of his nation, even before he, as an adolescent boy, killed a giant of a man named Goliath, David was given the responsibility of guarding and protecting a flock of sheep. Years later, at a time when he was being pursued by his arch enemy…at a time when his own life, his very existence was in jeopardy, David reflected on his first job when he wrote a very familiar passage of scripture:

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures.

He leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.

He guides me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for you are with me.

Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.

You anoint my head with oil, my cup overflows.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life,

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. (Psalm 23)

In the very heart of that 23rd Psalm David made a bold statement: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil…” What was it that gave David the confidence in knowing he could face death head on without feeling an ounce of fear? David answered that question with five simple words…” for you are with me.”

In these last eight days, whether you realize it or not, many of you have walked through the valley of the shadow of death. You have experienced, firsthand, the sting and pain of losing a loved one…perhaps your spouse, your father, a child, a sibling, an uncle, or a dear friend. Scott’s death has, perhaps, brought about the end of a relationship you have enjoyed for only a brief period of time or one you treasured for many years…and accepting this new reality of continuing your life without him may cause you to feel a tremendous sense of loss. But here is some good news: as you find yourself journeying through the valley of the shadow of death, realize that the Lord, Jesus Christ, is with you…he has been and still is walking by your side.

In the days to come, it is my prayer that on those occasions when you feel lonely…you will sense the presence of Jesus Christ in your life. On those occasions when you feel sad, that Jesus Christ will use precious memories of Scott to put a smile on your face. On those occasions when you feel anxious, uneasy, and filled with concern, that Jesus Christ will provide you his overwhelming supply of comfort and peace. On those occasions when you might question what the future may hold, that Jesus Christ will provide you a sense of hope for what tomorrow might bring. On those occasions when you feel lost and wandering about, that Jesus Christ will be your guide and will lead you in the right direction. Most of all, at that time when you feel the need for a Savior, that you will be made fully aware that Jesus Christ will not only forgive you of your wrong doings but will gladly welcome you into his family of faith.

Now, what does this scripture passage have to say about Scott? Well, I believe that when Scott was in the process of taking his final breath on this earth, the Lord, Jesus Christ, made His presence known to him…and when the time was right, the Lord called Scott’s name, took him by the hand and not only escorted him through the valley of the shadow of death but to his new home. Furthermore, I believe that even now Scott is experiencing all that God has in store for him…not just for today, but for all eternity.

Our final song for this Celebration of Life will be performed by Green Day. Let’s listen now to “Good Riddance.”

Song #3: Good Riddance

Closing Prayer:

Thank you for attending this Celebration of Life honoring Scott Schulze. Your presence here today has not only honored his memory, but has provided much appreciated support for Julie, Sofia, Michael, Jesse, Levi, Lindsey, his parents, and other family members. In much the same way, these family members will continue to need your love and support in the future…so in the days, weeks, and months to come, continue to reach out to Julie, Scott’s children, Scott’s parents, and Scott’s brother; send them a card, shoot them a text, call them up and let them know you are thinking of them, that you support them, and that you miss Scott too. As we prepare to leave this place, consider this:

In the days to come, when Scott’s absence brings

Tears to your eye, remember the laughter!

On those occasions when you feel sad, remember the smiles.

And on those occasions when you feel lonely, remember all you shared.

If you would allow me to close this service with a word of prayer, then immediately after this prayer, simply remain seated and await further instructions from our service director. Will you pray with me?

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the life of Scott Schulze. We thank you for the years he lived on this earth, for the contributions he made to this community, and we thank you, too, for the impact he made on the lives of his family members and countless others. You are a loving God, a merciful Father, and the source of all comfort and joy. I pray that you will wrap your loving arms around these family members and each person gathered here today and comfort them in their time of personal loss. Thank you for the memories these family members and dear friends will carry with them into the weeks and years to come; and may these wonderful memories bring about a joy that will surpass the sorrow they are experiencing on this day. May your love surround us…your Holy Spirit guide us…and your shield protect us. For it is in the name of Jesus Christ we pray. AMEN.