Dr. Richard Carlton Schultz Sr., MD: 1927 – 2024

Dr. Richard Carlton Schultz Sr., a renowned plastic surgeon and educator, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by family in Montecito, California, on January 18th, 2024, at the age of 96. 

Dr. Schultz led a long and distinguished life, achieving remarkable success in his field. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 61 years, Pauline Zimmermann (d. 2017).

Driven by early ambitions, Dr. Schultz excelled academically, earning his medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine. He interned in 1954 and completed his general surgery residency at Harper Hospital in Detroit in 1955. His dedication to his craft continued as he served as a Captain in the U.S. Army Medical Corps at Fort Carson from 1955 to 1957.

Following his military service, Dr. Schultz pursued further specialization in plastic surgery, completing his residency at the University of Illinois, Chicago in 1959, and the Veterans Administration Hospital in Hines, Illinois, the next year. His thirst for knowledge led him to a Fulbright Fellowship at the University of Uppsala in Sweden in 1961.

Dr. Schultz practiced plastic surgery in Park Ridge, Illinois, from 1961 until his retirement in 1997. Concurrently, he shared his expertise as a professor of Surgery at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago for over 30 years. He also served as Chief of the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at both the university and Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, IL, from 1970-1987.

A respected international authority, Dr. Schultz lectured extensively around the world, including in former communist countries. He returned to the University of Uppsala in 2003 as a Senior Fulbright Lecturer, a testament to his enduring impact.

Dr. Schultz’s contributions extended beyond the practice of medicine. He authored four books and published over 115 articles on facial injuries, congenital defects, and aesthetic reconstruction. In 2013, he shared his experiences in his memoir, Bending Reality: Adventures in Global Plastic Surgery. His commitment to the future of the field was evident in his creation of the Richard C. Schultz, MD, Endowed Resident Award at his alma mater, Wayne State University School of Medicine.

Beyond his achievements, Richard held great pride in his humanitarian work. He volunteered with Doctors Without Borders and Physicians for Peace, organizations that deliver life-saving medical care to underserved communities around the globe. These experiences likely fueled his passion for advocating for helmet laws in Illinois.

A seasoned globetrotter, Richard embraced the cultural tapestry of the world. He was a gifted photographer, his lens capturing the essence of people, places, and traditions wherever he ventured.

Richard thrived on physical activity. A competitive swimmer in his youth, he excelled at various sports – skiing, horseback riding, and tennis. However, sailing reigned supreme as his true passion.

Dr. Schultz is survived by his children: Richard Jr. (Elaine) of Traverse City, MI; Lisa (Paul) Rioux of Indianapolis, IN; Alexandra (David) Lifson of Sedona, AZ; and Jennifer (Brian Arnold) Schultz of Seattle, WA. He is also survived by his brother Paul (Sue) Schultz, seven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, two nieces, and a nephew.

A celebration of Richard’s life will be held at the Schultz home in Northport, Michigan on July 20. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the University of Michigan, Wayne State University, and the Leelanau Conservancy in his name.