Funeral held for Matthew Schultz, teenager who died in Green Memorial Day parade incident

Funeral services are underway for 13-year-old Matthew Schultz, a North Canton Middle School student who tragically passed away after falling from a trailer during the Green Memorial Day parade. The community is mourning the loss of a young life cut short.

Calling hours were held Monday, June 2, from 4-8 p.m. at Rossi Family Funeral Home in Canton. 

The Mass of Christian Burial for Matthew is scheduled for Tuesday, June 3, at 11 a.m. at Christ the Servant Catholic Parish. Following the service, burial will take place at Sunset Hills Memory Gardens. A luncheon will then be held at Haymaker’s Mill 1875 to provide an opportunity for family and friends to come together to remember and celebrate Matthew’s life.

Remembered fondly for his love of “Star Wars,” Legos, and wolves, Matthew was a cherished member of his church community. He was actively involved in various activities, including the Sophie Bowl, an event that raises awareness for congenital heart defects. Matthew’s obituary reflects the impact he had on those around him and the hobbies that brought him joy.

“Matthew overcame many obstacles in his short life. He was born with a congenital heart defect, and went through numerous surgeries. He never stopped fighting to get stronger. Through all of this he kept his spirits up and always made others feel better,” his obituary reads.

The family is requesting donations in his honor to the Sophie Bowl, Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital or Akron Children’s Hospital.

On Friday, May 30, at 6:30 p.m., Queen of Heaven Parish in Uniontown hosted a special memorial rosary for Matthew.

Later that evening, students from North Canton Middle School planned to gather at Witwer Park at 8 p.m. to honor Matthew’s life. Organizers are asking those attending to “wear Matthew’s favorite color BLUE and bring a light saber, glow stick, or flashlight.”

North Canton City Schools previously provided the following statement to 3News on Matthew’s death:

The loss of a young life is deeply devastating, and our thoughts and prayers are with Matthew’s family, friends, classmates, and teachers during this unimaginable time. He was a kind and caring student. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and to everyone affected by this tragedy.

Please know that our crisis management teams have been activated and we will have counseling services and resources available for students and staff at each of our buildings. Please encourage those around you to seek support.

The incident happened around 11:30 a.m. Monday, near the end of the parade route. Authorities say Matthew was riding on a trailer pulled by a pickup truck when he fell off and was struck by the trailer’s wheels.

Emergency crews from the Green Fire Department, who were already on scene for the parade, responded and transported Matthew to Akron Children’s Hospital. He was pronounced dead at 12:04 p.m., according to the medical examiner.

Sgt. Corin Usinski previously confirmed to 3News that the same truck pulling the trailer also ran over the teen after he fell.