LP Gas Hall of Fame Inductee – Class of 2023
Don Schultz, who owned Schultz Gas Service in Lansing, Illinois, made an impact in the areas of industry safety and industrial market growth.
Schultz, operating a single location in the Chicago area, represented the voice of the independent marketer at the state and national levels in the 1960s and ’70s. His voice was one of reason, inclusivity and friendliness, and helped create a positive image for the industry.
Schultz built that image on safety. In fact, he dedicated his 1978-79 term as president of the National LP Gas Association (NLPGA) to safety. He became president that year after having served for 11 years on the NLPGA board of directors, including four years on its executive committee.
Schultz also volunteered his time to the safety, technology and standards, and research and development committees of the NLPGA; the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) Committee on LP-Gases; and as a director with the Illinois LP-Gas Association.
Schultz conducted classes to educate others about the safe installation of LPG carburetion systems on vehicles. He also developed a safe and efficient system to refill forklift cylinders at the customer’s location. This helped pave the way for the company to pursue the industrial market when much of the domestic load was lost to natural gas.
Schultz is a 1983 winner of the NLPGA’s Distinguished Service Award. It honored him particularly for “his leadership and guidance in achieving good industry safe practices and in the development of new technologies.”
A native of Munster, Indiana, Schultz died in 2009 at age 77.