Philip “Phil” Gene Shultz

Philip “Phil” Gene Shultz, 65

Born May 18, 1956 (his mother, Mary Inez Shultz’, 27

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birthday) in McPherson, Kansas. Died March 8, 2022, in Canton, Ohio leaving many friends and loved ones. Phil’s oldest sibling, Carl Shultz (Austin TX) died in 2019. His father, Joe Shultz died in 2005. His mother died June 4, 1990.

Phil was known and seen by many in Canton Ohio, riding his bicycle to work, shop, visit and with his beloved crews Canton Bike Party and Squad Up Bicycle Club. Having rescued his siblings, Becky Fisher (KY), Claire White (Akron OH) Carol and Paul Shultz (Canton OH) from their dull family meals, Phil furthered his cooking skills in restaurants from Colorado Springs CO to Canton OH. For 14 years Phil held down the grill at John’s Bar and Grille. In 2003 Phil’s Grill opened on Cleveland Ave. Phil’s second location closed in 2011. Phil (as much as a lovable curmudgeon could) enjoyed working at the popular Canton lunch spot, Deli Ohio, where he made friends and earned fans. Phil loved planting, gardening and feeding people the fruits of his labor. Along with Julie Sparks, Phil co-founded Stark Fresh and continued to actively support the organization to the end. Phil accelerated his concern for social justice and continuously educated himself to be a strong ally. He especially enjoyed the conversations sparked by

The Color of Law

, which was on his hospital tray in his last days. There is no question of his strong support to decriminalize the use of marijuana.

The family invites Phil’s friends and fans to gather for a Celebration of Life Saturday, June 4, 2022, from 12p (noon) to 2:30p at Arboretum Park Shelter #8, 38

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ST NW Canton OH. We will share a Pot Luck lunch. The family will provide hot dogs and burgers. Plan to enjoy the disc golf course (one of Phil’s favorites.)

Following the pot luck, all are welcome to join the family at Working Gardens, 2526 Hankins RD NW Massillon OH 44646, where Phil’s dear friend, Scott Sandbrink, will host the group as we leave Phil’s ashes in the place where Phil enjoyed “so many beautiful” times.

Please contribute to Stark Fresh (starkfresh.org) in Phil’s honor; support decriminalization of marijuana; be an advocate for environmental issues and an ally for all people who are marginalized and disenfranchised. Phil’s last objective was to “let everyone know” that he “loves them.” Bye (Uncle, Brother, Friend, Neighbor) Phil.