It’s with great sadness I must announce the passing of Neeltje Schulte, age 76, of Newark, Delaware with former dwellings in Clayton, New Castle, and Baltimore, Maryland. Mrs. Schulte was widowed earlier this year during the passing of her only love and husband Christiaan Schulte. She took her last breath on October 19, 2017 at Christiana Hospital in Newark, Delaware.
Nel, as most people called her, had a very nice childhood in a loving and warm family with her sisters and brothers. The Kerkhoven’s grew up in the south of the Netherlands and were all closely involved in the activities of Salvation Army, such as Sunday school, vocal choir, and music corps. The faith in God played an important part in her life.
After high school, Nel worked and lived in a children’s home of the Salvation Army. While traveling for her work, she met Christiaan, her beloved for life. Soon after their marriage they immigrated to America and initially settled in Delaware. In 1966 Nel gave birth to her first child, Eugene Schulte, who eventually blessed her with a grandson – Dale Schulte. In 1967 Nel brought a second son into this world, Christopher Schulte.
Work opportunities took the family to Maryland were Nel raised the boys and started work in the men’s apparel business as a seamstress. In the late 80’s the boys left the nest, and Chris and Nel returned to Delaware to work. Nel took a position in alterations at the Men’s Warehouse, a career she kept until she was 72 years old.
Life had its struggles; in 2008 Nel underwent open heart surgery, in 2010 with her kidneys failing she had to go on dialysis. In 2013 she had to undergo the hardest battle yet, the passing of her first son Eugene. All was not sadness though, as later that year Nel received a kidney transplant and a new lease on life. With this transplant she decided to retire and focus on taking care of her ailing husband.
After her husband’s death, Nel moved to Churchman’s Village in Newark close to the Hospital. Her health was now catching up with her, but as many know, she kept active with her needlepoint, sewing, cross stitch and iPad. Family and friends kept up with her via Facebook, Messenger, WhatsApp, and even FaceTime.
She received regular visits from her grandson Dale and Dale’s mother Gloria. Just days before her passing, her son Chris visited from Oregon. She enjoyed her life immensely and would thank all that participated in her travels.
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