Richard “Rich” Schuster, a retired correctional counselor, passed away Jan. 27, 2026.

He worked for CDCR for more than three decades. Services will be held Feb. 21 in Susanville.
Schuster began his career with the department in 1983 as a correctional officer at the California Correctional Center in Susanville. He quickly became a member of the Special Emergency Response Team.
Schuster later promoted to correctional sergeant in 1990 and then became a correctional counselor.
He remained in this position until he retired from the department in 2014.
“Rich is remembered for being a partner who always had your back, a great friend to many and, dependable team member for over 31 years. Our deepest condolences are extended to his family and friends during this difficult time,” reports High Desert State Prison.
A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m., Feb. 21, at Susanville Community Church, 1400 Numa Road in Susanville.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.
Related content
Curtis Hevener, retired correctional officer
Curtis Hevener, a retired correctional officer, passed away May 6, 2026. He began his career with the department in 1993,…
KVSP mourns passing of Officer Raul Carrillo
Raul Carrillo, a correctional officer at Kern Valley State Prison, passed away May 7, 2026. He worked for the department…
Eugene Albitre, retired Native American Spiritual Leader
Eugene Albitre, a retired Native American Spiritual Leader from North Kern State Prison, passed away May 6, 2026. He worked…
SCC mourns passing of Officer Michael Maness
Sierra Conservation Center (SCC) in Jamestown is mourning the May 6, 2026, passing of Correctional Officer Michael Maness. Services will…
Carlos Borges, retired correctional sergeant
Carlos Borges, a retired correctional sergeant, passed away April 29, 2026. He worked for the department for 24 years before…
CIM mourns loss of Catherine Sanchez, supervising cook
Catherine Sanchez, a correctional supervising cook at California Institution for Men (CIM), passed away April 23, 2026. She dedicated 26…