Francis Schultheisz

Francis Eugene Schultheisz, a man whose heart was as vast as the great outdoors he loved so dearly, passed away peacefully at his home in Salem at 2:00 am on Friday, February 20, 2026. Born on May 7, 1941, in Lewisville, Ohio, Francis was the cherished son of the late Floyd and Opal (Morris) Schultheis. Throughout is 84 years, he built a life defined by hard work, a deep sense of duty, and an unwavering love for his family and the natural world.

A proud veteran, Francis served his country with honor in the United States Army during the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1969. He last worked as a maintenance worker for a demolition company. Yet, it was in the quiet moments where outside Francis truly thrived. Whether he was meticulously tending to his garden, keeping a perfectly manicured lawn, trapping, hunting or casting a line into the water, he found his greatest peace in nature. He was a man who loved the spirited fun of a game of horseshoes or cornhole which he was really good at. You could find him relaxing to a good classic western movie, watching wrestling, or keeping up with the news.

Francis leaves behind a large and loving family who will carry his memory in their hearts forever. He is survived by his devoted siblings: Chuck (Fern) Schultheis of Salem, Barbara (Rick) Wheatley of Hanoverton, Rose Laird of North Jackson, Hazel (Doug) Milburn of Salem, Sherry (Wayne) Gentry of Lisbon, Judy (Robert) Solomon of Salem, Roger (Darla) Schultheis of Coshocton, Becky (Nathan) Gorby of Salem, and Shelva, affectionately known to all as Jeannie, Schultheis of Salem. A niece, Hannah Schultheis of Salem, who was more like the daughter he never had. He now joins his sister, Virginia Lease, and an infant brother who preceded him in death, resting together in eternal peace.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate a life well-lived at 1 PM on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at the Arbaugh-Pearce-Greenisen & Sons Funeral & Cremation Services, with Pastor Chuck Schultheis officiating. The Salem Honor Guard will render Military Honors just prior to the beginning of the service. A time of visitation will be held from 12 noon to 1 PM. Honoring Francis's last wish; he will be laid to rest next to his father and mother at Trinity Reformed Church Cemetery in Hanover Township, Ohio.