Along with Walt Kelly, there are really no other cartoonists who have touched me quite like Charles Schultz. He was humble, a hard worker, fine craftsman, and a huge supporter of the arts. He was a lonely guy, afraid to be too happy in case something might take it away - which I completely get.
He also did a lot of research, his references to classical music, sports, and medicine are all correct, so much so that a whole exhibit has just been opened regarding Schroeder and Beethoven.
Charles "Sparky" Schultz passed away in 2000 but his legacy lives on in so many artists. His museum is here.