Harry Wieland Schulz

Harry Wieland Schulz Jr., 71, died on Feb. 26, 2023, at his home in Carbondale. 

Mr. Schulz was born on Sept. 21, 1951, in Anna, the son of Harry W. Schulz Sr. and Helen Womick Schulz. 

His pride in caring for athletes of all abilities and sports started with managing the 1968 CCHS Hall of Fame undefeated football team. 

While studying at Union University, he worked as a trainer in the Detroit Tigers farm system for two years. 

He graduated from Southern Illinois University with a master’s degree in physical education and worked as an athletic trainer at SIU for many years. 

One of his proudest moments was serving as the athletic trainer for the 1983 Division 1AA champion SIU football team. 

Eventually he started his own business, Southern Illinois Sports Medicine. In later years, he embraced his nieces’ interest in volleyball by starting the Pink Panther Volleyball Club.

Mr. Schulz is survived by his sister, Bobbe (Joseph) Lenzini of Carbondale; nieces Katie Lenzini (Steve Chorba) and Kelly Taylor (Tevin); great-niece Madelyn Taylor; and great-nephew Louis Chorba. Tinker, as he was known by his family, was thrilled to recently become a great uncle. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorials can be made to St. Francis CARE Animal Shelter in Murphysboro or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

A graveside service will be held at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, April 8, at the Anna Cemetery. A gathering to celebrate his life will follow at 4 p.m. at the Brick House Grill in Anna. 

Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale assisted the family with arrangements. To leave a story or memory of Mr. Schulz, visit www.meredithfh.com.