Michael W. Schulze, age 57, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2026, at SUNY Upstate Medical Center, with his family by his side after a sudden Cancer diagnosis.

Michael was born in Utica on July 7, 1968 to Roger and Roberta Adams Schulze and graduated from Whitesboro High School in 1986 he was united in marriage to Michelle Martinelli-Schulze. Michael began his career as a dishwasher at the Clinton House, then as a prep cook at Bobby's on Bleeker St. ( where he made Chicken Riggies come to life) then, Chesterfield's and then to his own Restaurant Innocenzo's. He then became a chef at Mohawk correctional to then a correctional officer and worked at Marcy Correctional Facility.

Michael loved spending time with family, the outdoors and he enjoyed skiing, snowmobiling, golfing, fishing, bowling, and any adventure. In his younger years he obtained the rank of Eagle Scout and would remind people every so often especially when lighting a fire with just some sticks.

Michael is survived by his loving wife, Michelle; his daughters, Alexus, (Vincent DeGeorge) Schulze, and Danielle (Lafayette Cunningham) Martinelli; his son, Michael (Miranda Croniser) Schulze, Jr.; his grandchildren, Laikyn, Everly, Aviana, Liliana, Skyler, Isabella, and a baby boy on the way; his father, Roger; his sister, Chrissy Westcott; his mother in law, Pamala Martinelli; and several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was predeceased by his mother, Roberta; his brother, Dean Schulze; and brother-in-law, Frank Martinelli Jr.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 11 AM, at St. Peter's Church, 200 N. James Street.

Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home on Monday, February 9, from 4 to 6 PM, at the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street, Rome.

Please offer online condolences at: www.barryfuneralhome.com.