Jay E Lageschulte

Jay Lageschulte, 69, of Litchfield Park, Arizona, passed away on January 29, 2025, after a courageous two-year battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born on December 17, 1955, in Waukegan, Illinois, to Ross and June Lageschulte. Jay grew up in Maryvale, Arizona, where his family settled in 1957 after moving from Illinois. The family's home in a tight-knit cul-de-sac fostered a sense of community, where everyone knew each other, even if it wasn't always ideal for a young boy's adventures.

Jay's strong work ethic started early—he became a paperboy at 14 and later worked as a busboy at Hobo Joe's. He continued taking on jobs, including part-time shifts at S and M Rentals, while attending NAU. His deep connection to family and faith showed in his active membership at Concordia Lutheran Church, where he served as an usher for many years and played on the church basketball team. It was there that he met the love of his life, Lorrie. They married in 1976 and spent nearly 50 years together.

In 1976, Jay transitioned to working full-time at S and M Rentals, and soon became a partner in the business, a role he held proudly until its closure in 2015. Over the years, Jay helped to build the company, and he was honored to see three generations of Lageschultes himself, his father, and his two sons— working together at S and M Rentals. Jay's leadership extended to the broader rental industry when he became actively involved with the Central Arizona Rental Association, and American Rental Association, eventually serving as its president.

Jay's passions were many, from his love of sports particularly the Duke Blue Devils, Chicago Cubs, and Boston Celtics-to his enjoyment of watching action movies. He was an avid fan of all major sports seasons, particularly football, basketball, and baseball. Jay's sense of humor, social nature, and

easy-going personality made him a beloved friend and a constant source of joy to those around him.

He was proud of his accomplishments in life, especially his sons, his beloved 1969 Dodge Charger R/T, and his leadership role in the American Rental Association. Jay's life was also marked by his love for his pets— he was a lifelong dog person— and his enthusiasm for travel, including trips to San Diego, Alaska, England, the Caribbean, Mexico, and California wineries.

A true family man, Jay cherished memories of Christmas tree hunting, playing Santa Clause, camping trips, and lending a hand to friends and loved ones. He had a reputation for being a bit of a "pack rat," keeping things he loved close to him. His favorite foods were simple: steak and sweet pickle relish, which was always kept stocked in the house.

Jay's greatest joys were his family and the memories they created together. He is survived by his wife, Lorrie “Eva”, his two sons, Justin (Alana) and Jeremy (Georgina) Lageschulte, and his four grandchildren, Lily, V, Evan, and Reed. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ross and June, and his brother, Alan Lageschulte.

A Celebration of Life for Jay will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at Palm Valley Golf Club (2211 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear, AZ). In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the American Rental Association Scholarship Fund, the Humane Society, or the American Cancer Society.

Jay Lageschulte will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his faith, and his genuine kindness. He made a lasting impact on everyone who knew him and will be deeply missed.