Louie attended Fresno High School, participating in football, basketball and baseball, no doubt fueling his life-long love of sports. Immediately after graduation, and eager to join brother Ollie, Louie enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1942. Louie started his naval career as a cook, and transitioned to a Ship Gunner’s Mate during WWII. As he would often recall, Lou earned the nickname ‘eagle eyes’ for shooting down Japanese Kamikaze.
While on shore leave in San Diego, Louie married his love, Rose Zingarelli. Louie and Rose soon welcomed their first son, Glenn. Within two years, younger son Allan was born.
Louie’s military career spanned over 35 years, serving through WWII, the Korean War and the Vietnam era. Louie earned many commendations and medals including:
WWII Victory medal, Navy Bronze Star and Good Conduct Medal, Silver Star – Asiatic Pacific Campaign, Philippine Liberation Medal, Armed Forces Longevity Medal, National Defense Service Medal, China Service Medal, Navy Occupation Medal and California Good Conduct Ribbon.
Louie continued government service with a 30 year career with the U.S. Postal Service. Walking his mail delivery route, Louie quickly befriended many an angry dog by always carrying hot dog treats. Louie’s postal career also included the implementation of Parcel Post and a Mounted Route which provided him his very own mail delivery vehicle. A friend at the Post Office who also worked at the ANG suggested Lou might enjoy the comradery at the local Air National Guard. Lou began another career there, ‘just making guys sandwiches.’ Lou stayed at the Guard for 35 years, becoming the Food Service manager. Lou was instrumental in upgrading those boxed lunches to a full service dining hall experience. Lou was known as ‘the man behind the meal’ who ‘taught those sandwich makers how to cook!” Louie retired from the Guard with the rank of Chief Master Sergeant.
During his Navy years, Louie lived through the hair raising experiences of three typhoons. When Hurricane Camille hit the Fresno ANG in Mississippi, he knew just what to expect. Louie’s successful efforts to feed the troops under such adverse conditions, earned him a Commendation Award.
Louie was an avid sports fan and was particularly dedicated to watching his beloved Dodgers and San Francisco 49’ers. Louie also enjoyed fishing trips with his buddies at their Shaver Lake cabin, regaling some tall fish tales for sure. Louie played a little golf and always insisted on walking the course, no matter the heat.
After Rose’s passing, Louie was introduced to gym workouts by son, Allan. Lou became a regular presence at the gym, starting his 4 times a week workouts at 0500-as soon as the gym doors opened. With his dedication and physical abilities, Lou inspired awe and respect from gym patrons half his age.
At home, Lou always had his faithful companion, Charmota, by his side; doing yard work, swimming and just visiting with neighbors.
Louie leaves behind his grieving son, Allan and his wife Stephanie, their daughter Elizabeth, granddaughters Shannon and Katie, and 3 great grandchildren.
In Lieu of Flowers, Remembrances may be made to: American Cancer Society, 2222 West Shaw #201,
Fresno, California, 93711
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
v.1.9.5