Dr. David M. Schulte, 57, of Midland, passed away unexpectedly on August 22nd, 2025, at Allegheny General Hospital of Pittsburgh.
He was born in Dayton, Ohio on May 20th, 1968, a son of Beatrice Marciniak Schulte with whom Dr. David and his family resided with and the late Martin V. Schulte, Sr. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his beloved wife, Yuqun Zhou Schulte, two children, Zehao Wu and Halina Yiwen Schulte, his siblings, Matthew M. Schulte, Jean L. Schulte-Tosh and Martin V. Schulte, Jr., his nephew and three nieces.
Dr. David graduated with the last graduating class of Lincoln High School of Midland. He got a BS in Biology of Marine and Environmental at Millersville University of Millersville, Pennsylvania, an MS in Marine Science from William and Mary College of Williamsburg, Virginia and a PhD in Marine Science at William and Mary College, Virginia Institute of Marine Science. For him, earning his PhD in 2024 was his crowning academic achievement. David retired from the Norfolk District Army Corps of Engineers in 2024 serving as a Regional Technical Specialist Oceanographer/Ecologist for 25 years. While employed, he received numerous awards, such as the Coastal America Award from the White House, for his work regarding oyster restoration and climate change studies. In addition, he published in the journal Science, Nature, and Frontiers in Climate on climate change affecting Tangier Island, VA and oyster restoration. Through his publications, he pioneered novel methods of reef building that massively improved reef health in the Chesapeake Bay and earned the largest oyster restoration grant in North America totaling 300 million dollars. His advocacy for climate change awareness and oyster restoration extended beyond academia. He and his work were featured in the New York Times, Washington Post, Reuters, and numerous international media outlets. He was a steadfast champion for the Tangier Islanders and other Eastern Shore Communities. Furthermore, David contributed as an expert consultant for the documentary film, “Been Here, Stay Here”, which captures the way of life and climate change related to the plight of Tangier Island, VA. He was also a principal contributor in the production of another Chesapeake Bay documentary with Black Spot Films. Beyond professional achievements, he was also a professional bodybuilder and powerlifter for over 40 years, heralded as one of the strongest men in Norfolk, Virginia. He trained in various martial arts from Aikido and Kendo. He was also an excellent archer skilled at sharpshooting. At home, he enjoyed investing his energies into his Koi ponds, bonsais, vegetable and flower gardens, axolotls, and coral reef tanks. He was a talented consummate who thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors. He also enjoyed taking long walks with his family in the Botanical Gardens. He was also a beloved dog owner. His connections to his dogs, “Chief”, “Lee”, “Murphy”, “Cherry” and “Tudou,” were a central part of his life. He was an avid reader in both novels and scientific literature. For all activities, he shared his wisdom and joy with his family. He commanded respect from his colleagues and neighbors. As a young boy, David was introduced to marine biology when he attended a lecture given by Jean-Michel Cousteau. From that time forward, David pursued his passion for studying the ocean and its inhabitants. Throughout his life David’s love, honor and sense of duty was found within and beyond his beloved Midland community. His conviction to helping the environment and the people endangered by climate change always stood strong no matter the pressure and resistance. His gentle mentorship guided his children to pursue their interests and passions. His love for his family and friends was immeasurable and for that we will be forever grateful.
The family has entrusted a private family service for Dr. David to the Schwerha-Noll Funeral Home, 629 Midland Avenue, Midland who was in charge of his arrangments. Interment will follow in the Beaver Cemetery.
