Pastor Fred Schuett, born December 5, 1939, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior on December 22, 2025. A faithful servant of God, devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Fred lived a life rooted in faith, family, and service.

Fred was born in Lidgerwood, North Dakota, the first son and oldest of five children of Ruby and Ervin Schuett. From an early age, Fred demonstrated a deep love for God and a natural calling to ministry. He often shared that the Lord called him to become a pastor while he was still in middle school—a calling that would guide the course of his entire life.

Fred pursued his theological education and graduated from Concordia University in St. Louis, Missouri and began his pastoral ministry in Bethalto, Illinois. While administering Holy Communion, he met a young woman who immediately captured his heart. Sometime later, Fred asked Golda Dustman for her hand in marriage. They were married shortly after and shared 61 beautiful years together, remaining lovingly by one another’s side until the end. Golda was not only his wife, but also his life partner, hunting companion, confidante, and greatest source of comfort and support.

Fred accepted his first call to serve in Lusk, Wyoming. It was there that he and Golda welcomed their first daughter, Diana. Four years later, Fred accepted another pastoral call in Anchorage, Alaska, where their family continued to grow with the birth of their middle daughter, Sherri, and youngest daughter, Patty. During their nine years in Alaska, Fred embraced the rugged beauty of the land, enjoying an active outdoor life that included hunting and fishing.

Eventually, Fred and Golda moved to Ontario, Oregon, where he faithfully served as minister of Pilgrim Lutheran Church for 22 years. His ministry there left a lasting impact on countless lives.

Fred retired from full-time ministry in 1999, but retirement did not slow him down. He continued to serve the Church by filling in as a minister for congregations, including a church in Homedale, Idaho.

Fred had a deep love for the outdoors and found joy and peace sharing it with his loved ones. Above all, he cherished his family and his faith, both of which remained at the center of his life.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Golda Schuett; his three daughters, Diana Gillum and her spouse Larry, Sherri Alston, and Patty Eidson and her spouse Barney; his siblings; his three grandchildren, Madison Hartung, Alex Eastwood, and Colton Gillum; and his two great-grandchildren, Clayton and Bowen Hartung.

A final farewell will be held for Fred at 10:00 am January 10, 2025, at Pilgrim Lutheran Church in Ontario. All are welcome to attend. 

Pastor Fred Schuett’s life was a testament to steadfast faith, humble service, and enduring love. While he will be deeply missed, his family takes comfort in knowing he has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”