David K. Schatz, 75, of Sandusky, passed away Thursday, January 8, 2026, surrounded by his family and by those whose love made them family in every way that mattered.

Dave was born April 6, 1950, in Toledo to Clyde and Olive Schatz (Porath). He graduated from Eastwood High School in Pemberville, Ohio, in 1968.

Dave met his wife, Freda, in Toledo in 1972. Their meeting turned into a long night and the beginning of a marriage that would span 50 years.

They moved to Sandusky in 1981, where together they managed Chelsea Court Apartments and owned a small craft business, Wood-N-Stuff. Dave was a school bus driver for Sandusky City Schools for 30 years, retiring in 2013.

Dave enjoyed gardening with his wife and fishing throughout his life—first with his father, and later with his family. He cherished time spent on the water with his daughter and took pride in teaching his grandson, Bryan, about fishing, car mechanics, and life. He shared a close bond with his granddaughter, Alyson, and loved to playfully remind her that she was always wrong. Dave also enjoyed the internet and YouTube, earning him the affectionate nickname of a “teenage boomer” among his family.

Dave is survived by his daughter, Nicole Schatz of Sandusky; son, David Schatz II; and grandchildren, Bryan and Alexis (Tremaine) Houseman, Alyson Houseman, Justin Kromer, and Danica and Dru Schatz.

He is also survived by the many caregivers and staff of Buckeye Hospice and The Meadows at Osborn Park, whose compassion, humor, and devotion brought him comfort, and whose love for him was deeply felt by his family.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Linda; and wife, Freda.

Per Dave’s request, there will be no memorial service or visitation. Memorial contributions may be made to Buckeye Hospice. Toft Funeral Home & Crematory, 2001 Columbus Ave., Sandusky is handling the arrangements.