Richard Schantz August 27, 2021

Richard (Rick) Schantz of Sharon passed away on Friday, August 27,
2021 at 74 years of age.
Predeceased by his beloved wife of 42 years, Karen. Devoted partner of
Barbara Offringa of Sharon. Loving father of Michael Schantz of
Walpole, Lindsey McMahon & her husband Jeff of Weston, and Gregory
Schantz & his wife Ivy of Westwood. Dear brother of Carol Harvey & her
husband Ken of Island Park, NY and Larry Schantz of Spring Valley, NY.
The first in his family to attend college, Rick earned a scholarship
to New York University before continuing on to receive a Ph.D. in
Computer Science from Stony Brook University. At Stony Brook, during
the earliest stages of the development of the internet, he completed
his thesis on how computers communicate. His intellectual curiosity
and interest in learning never stopped, and for the last 48 years Rick
enjoyed every moment of being a Principal Scientist at BBN
Technologies, engaging in research on communication and encryption,
among other topics.
Rick loved a great croissant (the flakier, the better), a good apple
pie, and a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie. He was an avid
athlete, playing and coaching sports throughout his life. He most
recently developed a love for pickle ball and could be found on the
courts many times a week.
The role that by far meant the most to him, though, was that of being
Grampy to his seven cherished grandchildren. All seven will hold
their memories of kayak rides, M&M pancake breakfasts, and reading
books with Grampy close in the days and months to come.
An outdoor graveside service will be open to all and held at Sharon
Memorial Park, 40 Dedham Street, Sharon on Monday, August 30th at 9:45
AM. Due to the pandemic, a small private Shiva will be held later in
the day. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Dana-Farber
Cancer Institute, Attention: Contribution Services, 10 Brookline Place
West, 6th Floor, Brookline, Ma 02445