Richard John Schuchart

Richard “Rick” John Schuchart, age 66, of Menasha, passed away on August 28, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on June 15, 1958, in Appleton Wisconsin to Richard and Jean Ann (Walsh) Schuchart. He was a graduate of Marinette Catholic Central, Class of 1976.

Rick was also a 1981 graduate of UW Oshkosh, receiving his bachelor’s degree in business, and was a member of the Phi Sigma Epsilon Fraternity. He was the owner of telecommunications provider Tel/Com and other related business ventures in the Fox Valley until his retirement. In addition, Rick founded wireless phone company PCS Digital in Appleton and 3G Comm which acquired wireless spectrum from the Federal Government. He had an entrepreneurial spirit in the telecommunications industry that followed that of his late aunt, Margaret Walsh.

Growing up in Marinette, and later moving to Menasha, Rick had many lifelong friendships that he cherished to the very end. Rick was a lifetime member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Appleton, and his strong faith helped him endure the challenges that lay before him. 

Generosity was Rick’s middle name, never hesitating to support local non-profit organizations, or help anyone who was down and out. He was always the first to pick up the tab, and never hesitated when help was needed. His thoughtfulness was unparalleled. He never, ever forgot birthdays and anniversaries, and always went overboard for the holidays. His annual 4th of July parties were legendary and will be greatly missed. 

Rick loved being on the water at his home on Lake Winnebago and in Door County and was famous for his Christmas baskets filled with bounty from the Door. And many tables were graced with one of Rick’s Door County cherry pies. In recent years, he wintered in Florida. He was always thrilled to have family and friends visit and not terribly sad when they had to leave😊. Whether it be on Lake Michigan, Winnebago, or the Gulf, Rick loved being on the water. He was a licensed guide, Charter Captain, and Tour Boat Captain. His crowning jewel was when he earned his U.S. Coast Guard Master 50 Ton Captain License, having spent many months in preparation. He enjoyed scuba diving in his earlier years and enjoyed researching shipwrecks. Rick was always a permanent fixture at deer camp and created many memories that best not be repeated here. His real passion was pheasant hunting with his beloved black lab, Jenny. He also enjoyed golf and bike riding.

Rick was a jack of all trades, excelling in auto mechanics, body work, home remodeling, small engine repair, and the list goes on. His shop had every tool you could think of and he was always willing to share his knowledge. If your mower broke down, he’d be at your door, wrench in hand.

He was a humble man with many accomplishments and accolades throughout his life. Achieving the rank of Eagle Scout, he years later helped guide his nephews down the same path. He was active with countless numbers of nonprofit organizations as a board member, donor, volunteer, and advisor. These included LEAVEN, Fox Valley Humane Society, Emergency Animal Rescue Service of Grand Forks, ND, Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce, and many more. He was president of the Telephone Answering Service Association of Wisconsin and the Great Lakes TeleServices Association.

Though passionate about his businesses and hobbies, Rick’s true enjoyment came from spending time with friends and family. He was very proud of his nieces and nephews and took every opportunity to be a part of their lives. The holidays were especially important to him.

He will be sorely missed by his siblings, John (Anna) Schuchart, Ann (Mike) Albert, Tom (Kelly) Schuchart, nieces and nephews, David, Sam, Ryan (Meggie), Stephanie, Anna (fiancé Miguel), Katelin, Emma, and Laura, grand-niece Olivia as well as many other relatives and friends and neighbors.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his beloved lab Jenny.

There will be a Funeral Mass for Rick on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at 11:00 AM at St. Mary Catholic Church, 312 S. State Street, Appleton with Fr. Bill Swichtenberg officiating. Visitation at the church will be from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Interment will take place at St. Mary Cemetery of Appleton at a later date. Memorials can be made to LEAVEN, St. Mary Catholic Church in Appleton, or Fox Valley Humane Association.

Many thanks from the bottom of our hearts to all the heroes who helped in so many ways. They include the nurses and doctors at Theda Care and Froedtert who showed kindness and treated him with dignity, the dear friends who visited, checked mail, cut his grass, and took Rick to appointments, and those who regularly inquired about and prayed for him. He was so blessed to know so many caring people.