Louis Gerald Streb

It is with profound sadness that the family of Louis Gerald Streb announce his peaceful passing on Friday, August 7, 2026, at the age of 95.

Louis was born on September 13, 1930, in New Philadelphia, Ohio. He was lovingly known as "Papa Lou" by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and "Lou" and "Jerry" to his family and friends.

Lou cared deeply about his faith, family, and friends. He was quick witted and had a wonderful sense of humor. He was an avid lifelong fan of the Cleveland Guardians and Ohio State football, he loved to dance, cook for his family, and teach his grandchildren how to play poker.

As a United States Air Force Korean War Veteran, Lou served his country as an air traffic controller with great honor and he carried that same spirit of service into every aspect of his life. While stationed at Kessler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi, Lou met the love of his life, Elizabeth from New Orleans at a dance on a Mississippi river boat. They married in 1954.

Lou continued his civilian career with the Federal Aviation Administration as an air traffic controller and retired at the age of 55. He worked at the Toledo Express Airport from 1960 to retirement. After retirement from the FAA, he continued to work in aviation at FlightSafety International as a flight simulator instructor. He loved to teach and was an instructor in the Aviation Program at Bowling Green State University for several years.

Lou was an active member of the Korean War Veterans Association, Northwest Ohio Chapter 131. He served as the secretary writing monthly newsletters, supported other veterans through fellowship and volunteerism, and marched in many parades. He and his grandson Eric, who also had served in the Air Force, loved to participate together in Veteran's Day programs at various elementary, junior and senior high schools. Lou was instrumental in organizing the installation of the Korean War Veterans Monument located at the Civic Center Mall in downtown Toledo. 

After retirement, Lou volunteered at the Sight Center of Northwest Ohio as a radio newspaper reader. He also enjoyed singing in the choir and served as a scripture lector at St. Patrick's of Heatherdowns and St. Rose Catholic Church.

One of Lou's greatest accomplishments was enrolling in college at the age of 61 at the University of Toledo through the State of Ohio's Program 60 and earning his Bachelor's degree in History. He was so proud that he and his son Dan, who had just completed his Master's Degree were able to celebrate receiving their diplomas in the same graduation ceremony. Lou went on to obtain his Master's Degree in Liberal Studies.

Lou was preceded in death by his wife of 30 years Elizabeth Spurlock Streb, parents Louis and Edna Streb, 5 siblings, and his great-granddaughter, Calla Rose Bellman.

Lou is survived by his 6 children-Holly Streb of Powell Ohio, Michael (Diane) Streb of Loveland, Colorado, Cindy (Doug) Hoskinson of Punta Gorda Florida, Daniel (Julie) Streb of Monclova Ohio, Patrick (Kerry) Streb of Holland, Ohio and Julianne (John) Ward of Galena, Ohio.

He is also survived by 14 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren who all adored him greatly. Lou is survived by his twin brother Tom of Naperville, Illinois.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to all who lovingly cared for their father - the exceptional staff at The Lakes of Monclova Assisted Living and the caregivers of Northwest Ohio Hospice.

The Funeral Mass for Lou will be Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 11 am at St. Patrick of Heatherdowns Church, 4201 Heatherdowns Blvd, Toledo, OH, preceded by visitation in the church from 10-11 am. Interment will be private at Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Lou's memory to:

The Sight Center of Northwest Ohio: https://sightcentertoledo.org 

March of Dimes: https://www.marchofdimes.org/ohio