Donald “Don” E. Schulte, a beloved Pattonville teacher who inspired generations of
students, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2026.

Don was born July 6, 1963, in St. Louis, Missouri, to David and Donna Schulte.

He graduated from Pattonville High School and earned degrees from the University of
Missouri–Columbia and Webster University. He spent more than 30 years teaching
social studies and history at Pattonville High School. Being both a Pattonville graduate
and teacher was especially meaningful to Don, and he remained proud to be part of the
Pirate community.

Don maintained many friendships with both former students and fellow teachers
throughout the years. Many of Don’s former students remained in touch with him long
after graduation, a testament to the lasting impact he had both in and beyond the
classroom. He took great pride in watching generations of students grow, succeed, and
return to share their stories with him.

In remembering Mr. Schulte, many former students think of the lessons he
shared—both in and beyond the classroom—and the lasting impact those lessons had
on their lives.

He was an active member of the National Education Association, including the
Pattonville NEA and Missouri NEA, and remained involved after retirement, serving as
Secretary of the Metro St. Louis NEA-Retired organization and participating in statewide
NEA-Retired advocacy efforts.

Don had a love of the outdoors and enjoyed hiking and spending time in nature. He
earned the rank of Eagle Scout through the Boy Scouts of America and remained a
lifelong supporter of Scouting, reflecting his deep commitment to leadership, service,
and the outdoors. He was also a dedicated volunteer with the Ozark Trail Association,
contributing his time and efforts to help maintain and preserve the natural beauty he so
deeply valued. After retiring, Don spent his summers volunteering at Rocky Mountain
National Park as a campground host. This role allowed him to combine his love of
nature with his desire to help others enjoy it as well.

Don is survived by his beloved son, Colin; his parents, David and Donna Schulte; and
his brother, Dan Schulte. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, great
nieces and nephews, extended family, and many close friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Don’s memory to the Greater
St. Louis Area Council, Boy Scouts of America, or the American Diabetes Association:

https://stlbsa.org/give-now/memorial-gifts/

https://diabetes.org/ways-to-give/memorial-gifts

A celebration of Don’s life will be held at the PFEM –

Professional Firefighters of
Eastern Missouri Hall, 115 McMenamy Rd, St. Peters, MO 63376, on Saturday, April 4,
2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. To celebrate Don’s life, guests are invited to wear purple, his favorite color.

A private family burial will be held at a later date.

May his love of learning, the outdoors, and service continue to inspire all who knew him.