Kristi Schultz

Kristi Schultz, age 68, died unexpectedly on September 18, 2026 in Madison, WI.

Kristi was born on February 23, 1958, in Sun Prairie, WI. She was one of 8 children born to Arthur and Darlene (White) Schultz who raised their children to be kind and loving to one another. She attended Sun Prairie High School. While Kristi worked for almost 50 years, her most rewarding job was while working at Chamomile Assisted Living. She was a dedicated care giver for people who were in need of a warm and caring person as Kristi was. Her authentic personality, easy laugh, and gentleness offered the people she cared for a sense of peace.

Kristi met her greatest love, Charles (Bob) Hillestad in 1993 where they shared a home in Madison, WI. They raised 4 dogs: Bailey, Brandy, Snoop, and Lily which gave Kristi great pleasure in spoiling all of them. Along Bob’s side, Kristi also loved spending time with friends and family. She had a wonderful way of listening to others - you could see her smiling and laughing as people shared their stories, and her excellent cooking and baking skills were appreciated by many.

Kristi is survived by her committed partner, Bob Hillestad, and his children, Angie Hillestad Krueger and Adam Hillestad; siblings, Jeanne Saunders, Nancy Messersmith, Randy (Raenee) Schultz, Danny (Judy) Schultz, Micky Schultz, Kevin Schultz; nephews and nieces, step-grandchildren and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Darlene Schultz; her best friend and sister, Kathi Schultz Virnig; brother-in-law, Leslie Messersmith, and nephew, Marcus Messersmith.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Details will be shared with family and friends once finalized.