A former chief of orthopedic surgery at the Air Force Academy has passed away. R.J. Black Schultz, M.D. was known not only for his devotion to medicine, but as an avid aviation enthusiast and churchgoer. He passed away on May 3, 2016, at the age of 83.
Known as “Doc, ” the native Oklahoman was commander of an Air Force surgical team in the Vietnam delta, service that resulted in his earning the Bronze Star and Air Medal.
After leading the department of orthopedic surgery at the Air Force Academy, Dr. Schultz continued his work as an orthopedic surgeon in Pueblo in 1971, a career that lasted until 1997.
Fascinated by aviation, Dr. Schultz was a co-founder of the Pueblo Historical Aviation Society. Dr. Schultz also was active in the Air Force Association, American Legion Post 2, Eagles, VFW and other veterans’ groups, Greater Pueblo Chamber of Commerce, Pueblo Economic Development Corporation, Investors Club, and Boy Scouts.
Doris Kester knew Dr. Schultz through Central Christian Church, where he worshipped for 45 years. She commented, “He was passionate about the fact that he served in the military and he was very interested in the aircraft museum in Pueblo. He was a regular attendee at the Pueblo symphony. Dr. Schultz was a great person who was always friendly, and was well loved.”
Retired Col. John Feagin, Jr., M.D., former Hospital Commander at West Point, commented to OTW, “He was a legend. I did not know him well enough to add anything of note except that he was an outstanding and inspiring Team Physician at the Air Force Academy and I visited him while I was in the same position at West Point. I was much impressed.”
Dr. Schultz is survived by sons R.J. Schultz DDS (Janice Schultz, Psy.D.), Bruce Schultz (Yvonne Marquez) and Karl (Stephanie) Schultz; grandsons Bowen Schultz, Connor Schultz and August Schultz; stepson James Pena; special friend Edna Simmons; sister-in-law Mary Jane Schultz; nephew John (Debbie) Schultz; and nieces Elizabeth (Steve) Humphreys and Margaret (George) Beggs-Irwin. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother John Schultz; first wife Barbara Schultz; second wife Nora Schultz; and daughter Cynthia Schultz.
A funeral service was held Tuesday, May 10, 2016, at the Central Christian Church in Pueblo, Colorado.
