Louis Olscheske

With great reverence, we celebrate the life of Louis Edward Olscheske, who was born on August 6, 1946 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and went to be with his Lord and Savior on June 23, 2024. Most knew him as Lou, a compassionate man, funny and witty, with a heart full of love and laughter. To his cherished grandchildren, he was affectionately known as "Papa." Lou was baptized into the Lutheran church and recently recommitted his life to Christ. His faith was an integral part of his life, guiding him with the words of Romans 8:38-39, "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Lou was a reliable pillar in his community and in the lives of his family. He was a patriot, serving two tours in Vietnam as a U.S. Marine and earning a Purple Heart for injuries sustained in the line of duty. After his military service, Lou embarked on a rewarding career as a program examiner with the Bureau of Prisons. Despite his accomplishments, Lou remained humble, always pulling for his beloved Pennsylvania teams, especially the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was a man of many passions, including fishing for bass with his brother-in-law and best friend, Vernon Hobbs, hunting, and spending time at the gun range. Louis loved the water and nature, and upon retiring, he chose to settle in the serene town of New Bern, North Carolina.

Above all, what mattered most to Lou was his family. He was the beloved husband of Rachel Olscheske, whom he married on December 22, 1977. Their bond was strong and filled with mutual respect and love. He was an adored father to Kimberly Dexter (Christopher), Heather Shiers (Tim), and Yvonne Lyons (Tim), and a cherished grandfather to Brayden Mock, Logan Shiers, Ryan Dexter, Oliver Dexter, and Brittany Lyons. Louis is also survived by his sister, Debbie Valenza. He is preceded in death by his parents, Louis Sr. and Margaret Campbell, as well as his stepfather, Alex Makris.

Lou's family will receive friends from 3 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 29, 2024 at the family's home in Bridgeton.

The memories we carry of Lou will forever bring smiles and warmth to our hearts. His wit, his laughter, and his steadfast love will never be forgotten. As we remember Lou, we invite you to share your memories and upload photos to his memorial page, creating a tapestry of love that will forever bear testament to a life beautifully lived.

Bennett Funeral & Cremation Care is honored to serve the family and friends of Lou Olscheske.