Richard Sylvester Schatz Jr.'s Obituary
Richard S. Schatz, age 79, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2026, leaving behind a rich legacy defined by music, art, adventure, and devotion to family and friends.
Born on September 5, 1946, in Camden, New Jersey, to the late Richard S. Schatz and Josephine (Sandora) Schatz, Richard lived in southern New Jersey until 1999 when he and his wife moved to Annapolis, Maryland.
Education & Military Service
Richard graduated from Bishop Eustace Preparatory School in 1964 and earned his undergraduate degree from La Salle University in 1968. Driven by a lifelong love of music, he went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Music, Composition, Arranging, and Musicology from Combs College of Music in 1974, as well as a Certificate in Applied Musicianship from the Neupauer Conservatory of Music in Philadelphia.
Richard also honorably served his country in the Army National Guard of New Jersey from 1969 to 1975, earning the rank of Sergeant.
Career & Professional Life
Richard dedicated his career to educating and inspiring others through music. He began as a high school teacher at an Academy in Camden, New Jersey, before embarking on a fulfilling, 32-year career with Roland Corporation US, where he served as District Sales Manager and Manager of Music Education.
Following his retirement, Richard continued sharing his gift by teaching piano at a local music store and at home. He remained deeply passionate throughout his life about encouraging people of all ages to learn and appreciate music.
A Life of Music, Art and Adventure
Music: An accomplished pianist, Richard played with several bands in his youth and even performed at New York City’s legendary CBGB during the heyday of rock and roll. Later in life, he brought immense warmth and joy to his family and friends playing piano during gatherings, especially around the Christmas holidays. He truly enjoyed sharing jam sessions with his son and friends.
Sailing & Travel: An avid sailor, Richard spent countless hours sailing the Chesapeake Bay with his wife and beloved friends in the Chesapeake Catalina Yacht Club where he served as Commodore. His love for sailing took him across the globe, chartering sailboats in Greece, New Zealand, and the British Virgin Islands. He traveled extensively to Europe and South America with his wife and many dear friends, recently completing a memorable trip to Machu Picchu in Peru.
Art: A gifted watercolorist and sketch artist, Richard loved capturing the world around him. He was an active member of the Annapolis Watercolor Club, proudly serving on the Board for over 12 years.
Hobbies & Fun: Richard loved having fun with his children. When they were young, he enjoyed taking them often on vacation to Disney World. Later he cherished late-night video game sessions with his son and daughter-in-law, tabletop games like Dungeons & Dragons, attending and dressing up for Renaissance Fairs, and gathering to watch sci-fi and action movies.
Family
He is survived by his beloved wife, Diane Benyus; his daughter, Christina Szewczuk (Schatz) and her husband Larry; his son, Richard Schatz and his wife, Rebecca; and his grandchildren, Gabriel and Samantha Szewczuk.
Memorial Contributions
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Richard's honor may be made to support local artists through Annapolis Musicians for Musicians:(https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=XBJN6KYV9572E) or please consider purchasing a Memorial Tree.
Thank you.
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