Richard Harry Schutte, Jr.

Richard Harry Schutte, Jr., 78, of Greenville, Michigan, is now in the presence of his Savior, Jesus Christ.  He died with his family at his side on May 26, 2026 at Blodgett Hospital Select Services after a 4-year courageous fight against Chronic Lymphatic Leukemia and Merkel Cell Carcinoma. During these 4 years, the Lord showed Rick an abundance of kindness and extending his life beyond his prognosis—the goodness of our God.

Rick was born April 9, 1948, in Quincy, Illinois, to Richard and Betty Schutte. When Rick was 8 years old, he responded in faith to the Lord Jesus Christ as his Savior receiving forgiveness of his sins.  He attended Quincy High School in Quincy, Illinois. He continued his education at Quincy Business College in 1968 and transferred to Grand Rapids Baptist Bible College (now Cornerstone University) in 1969, graduating in 1971. Rick married Judy Nelson Schutte on July 27, 1968.  The Lord directed his steps in the floral industry in sales, later co-owning a retail flower shop and retiring after working as head flower buyer at Eastern Floral.

He was known for his friendliness and gift for gab. He loved fishing, whether casting a line in trout streams across Michigan, Idaho, Utah, and Canada, or embarking on six memorable trips to Alaska in pursuit of the unforgettable King Salmon.

Rick cherished his family. His greatest joy was being surrounded by his grandchildren especially during their annual “Cousins Camp”.  He delighted in watching his family grow and sharing time together. 
Rick will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Judy; brother, Steven Schutte; daughters, Christine Geddes (Vince) and Jodie Tienvieri; grandchildren, Jordan and Minsoo Jeong, Taylor and Haneul Geddes, Hannah and Tyler Marcum, Payton Geddes, Joshua Tienvieri; great-grandson, Will Marcum.

He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Schutte, Sr. and mother, Betty Schutte.

Arrangements are being made by MKD.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Friday, May 29 from 5 to 8 pm at West Cannon Baptist Church, 5760 Cannonsburg Road, Belmont, Michigan 49306, and 30 minutes prior to the funeral service. Funeral services will be held at 11 am, Saturday, May 30 at West Cannon Baptist Church, with Pastor David Parmerlee officiating. Burial will be held at Ada Township Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be directed to West Cannon Baptist Church Journey Fund.