Eric Schultz, 52, of Bernville, Pennsylvania, passed away unexpectedly on November 30, 2025, leaving his family, friends, and the entire Berks County community in deep mourning. His sudden absence has created a profound void in the small borough he loved, where he was known for his quiet strength and genuine interest in the success of those around him.
A treasured figure at The Deal Room, a local networking and mentorship space in Reading, Eric spent countless evenings offering encouragement and practical advice to entrepreneurs and small business owners. His calm presence and thoughtful insights helped many turn ideas into reality, earning him widespread respect as a mentor who celebrated others’ victories as his own.
Born and raised in nearby Leesport, Eric graduated from Governor Mifflin High School in 1991 and later earned an associate degree in business administration from Reading Area Community College. For more than 25 years he worked as a commercial loan officer at a regional credit union, focusing on agricultural and family-owned enterprises that form the backbone of Berks County’s economy.
Eric shared a loving marriage of 28 years with his wife Laura and was a devoted father to daughter Emily and son Jacob. Weekends often found the family gathered around the kitchen table or in his backyard workshop, where he passed down woodworking skills and stories of perseverance that shaped his children’s lives.
An avid outdoorsman, Eric spent countless hours hiking the Appalachian Trail sections near his home and fly-fishing along Tulpehocken Creek. He also restored vintage bicycles for local youth programs and brewed small-batch craft beer that became a fixture at community gatherings, always shared with a warm smile and an open invitation.
The family will receive friends and hold a celebration of Eric’s life on December 10, 2025, at St. Thomas Church in Bernville, followed by a reception at the Bernville Community Fire Company.