It is with profound sadness that the family of Joseph “Joe” Theodore Schultz of Fayette County announce his sudden passing on Sunday, March 24, 2024. He was 69 years old.

Joe was born in Connersville, Indiana on January 1, 1955 to Bernard T. (Bernie) and Mary E. (Bunzendahl) Schultz. He was the first born in Fayette County that year and was the only child Bernie and Mary had, and he was their world.

On July 18, 1992, Joe married the love of his life, Bonita “Bonnie”. They were married for 31 wonderful years. During this time, Joe and Bonnie were able to enjoy several great trips with many of their close friends. Joe was also a huge sports fan and enjoyed watching college basketball and football games and would root on any Indiana team.

October 24, 1995 was another special day in Joe’s life. This was the day he adopted his only child, Joellyn C. (Vickers) Hartley. Even though Joellyn (Punkin as she was called by her dad) was not his biological child, their bond was stronger than most parent/child relationships. They always said they were blessed to be able to choose one another.

Joe farmed his whole life in Fayette County and his absolute joy was being at home on his farm with Bonnie, their daughter, Joellyn, grandson, Grant Joseph Hartley, and Joe’s beloved dog, Duke. There is a special place on the farm where they would all go and enjoy many campfires together.

Joe loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter. He had the privilege of being able to hunt in Africa on three different occasions and has left a legacy from his adventures. In addition, he also hunted in West Texas, Colorado, and Alaska and has many beautiful trophies from his travels, several which were featured in hunting magazines. He was a true hunter that never boasted about his hunts, nor did it for the accolades, and always respected the land and the animals.

During the 80’s and 90’s, Joe competed in several target shooting competitions. He was an excellent marksman and won many events he attended. He was also a lifetime member of both the National Rifle Association and Safari Club International.

After graduating from Connersville High School in 1973, Joe attended Ivy Tech in Indianapolis for electrical training. He also served on a few boards in Fayette County through the years.

Joe was a man of his faith and enjoyed attending church on Sundays at Connersville Baptist Temple, where he was a member.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; several aunts, uncles, and cousins. He will be sadly missed by all who loved him, especially his wife Bonnie of Connersville; daughter Joellyn C. Hartley of Batesville; grandson Grant Joseph Hartley of Batesville; several cousins; and an extremely close friend network.

A Celebration of Joe’s Life will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 30, 2024 at Connersville Baptist Temple with Pastor Joe Ferreira officiating. Family and friends may visit from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the service. Miller, Moster, Robbins Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Fayette County Cancer Society and Connersville Baptist Temple. Online condolences may be made anytime at millermosterrobbins.com.