Chad Allen Schuster, age 47, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Clara Barton Medical Center in Hoisington, Kansas. He was born June 30, 1978, in Russell, Kansas, to Laverne and Barbara (Wiesner) Schuster.
Chad was the kind of person who put his whole heart into everything he did—steady, hardworking, and always happiest when he was around people, animals, and the everyday routines that made life feel full. He attended grade school and high school in Russell until his junior year, then graduated from Hays High School in 1997.
From a young age, Chad showed commitment and determination. He was a member of Coronado Area Council Boy Scout Troop 118 and reached the rank of Life Scout. He attended meetings regularly and enjoyed camps in Osborne and Kirwin, Kansas. Chad earned 16 merit badges and was proud to receive his ADALTARE DEI Catholic Boy Scout medal.
Chad also participated in the Kansas Special Olympics, where he earned 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place medals in basketball, track & field, and bowling. One of his favorite parts of the year was the Special Olympics banquet and dance—especially the music. Chad was often right next to the DJ, picking out the tunes and soaking up every minute of it. He was also a 3rd degree member of the Knights of Columbus Council 3034.
More than anything, Chad loved animals—especially cows. Thursdays at the Russell livestock sale barn were a highlight of his week, and he rarely missed them. The owner at the time, Jay Sweeney, thought the world of Chad and invited him to come out on Wednesdays to help count and sort cattle. On sale day, Chad sat with Jay and the auctioneer, raising his hand to bid on the cows. On Fridays, he helped clean the pens. Chad didn’t just enjoy the sale barn—he belonged there. It was nothing for him to spend $40 on sale day at the restaurant, visiting with friends and enjoying the day. He also attended the yearly bull sale at Bar S Ranch in Paradise, Kansas. Chad knew just about everyone, and everyone knew Chad—so much so that people would call if he wasn’t at the sale on Thursday. When Jay Sweeney passed away and the Russell sale barn closed, Chad deeply missed his three-day-a-week “fun job” (no pay), and the days felt longer without it.
Chad worked part-time at Dollar General, helping unload trucks and stock shelves under the supervision of DSNWK of Russell. For a brief time, he moved to Great Bend and lived at Rosewood Services. Later, his younger brother, Brad Schuster, moved to Galatia, Kansas, and Brad and Laura Schuster became his full-time caregivers. Chad continued attending Rosewood Services during the day, where he worked on the lawn crew and detailing car crew.
Chad had a big love for music, and Brad and Laura made sure he got to enjoy it. They took him to see Sunset Sinners, Warrant, Pantera, and Lamb of God. He had a great time at the concerts, and he also loved shopping—especially buying CDs and jeans. Chad was a fan of Michael Jordan, and when he could get a pair of his favorite shoes and watch him play basketball, he carried a proud smile that said it all. And while Chad enjoyed his fun, he also knew the value of work. On weekends, he helped Brad with his lawn mowing and wood cutting business and took pride in his chores around the house.
Chad will be remembered for his sweet smile, infectious laugh, and the many hugs he freely gave. He had a gift for making people feel noticed and welcomed, and his presence brought warmth wherever he went.
Chad is survived by his mother, Barbara of Russell; his brother, Bradley Schuster and wife Laura of Galatia, Kansas; his sister, Amanda Jackson of Russell; nephews, Wyatt and Waylon Harmon and Stephaun Jackson; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his father, Laverne, who passed away November 5, 2024.
Funeral services will be 10:00 AM Monday, March 9, 2026 at the St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Russell, Kansas. Burial will follow in the St. Mary's Cemetery in Ellis, Kansas at 2:00 PM.
A rosary service will be at 6:30 PM Sunday led by the Russell 3rd Degree Knights of Columbus Council #3034 followed by a parish vigil service.
Visitation will be Sunday 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM and Monday 9:00 AM until service time all at the church.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Humane Society of the High Plains or St. Mary's Cemetery Fund. Please share memories on Chad's tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com