Louis Schelske, 80, was admitted to Little Company of Mary in Torrance for stomach pains on Tuesday September 2, 2014 and on Wednesday he was diagnosed with Leukemia; on Sunday September 7, 2014 he went to be with God. He was surrounded by his loving family and friends when he passed, the room filled with love and he once again was reunited with his wife. Lou was 80 years, 1 month, and 12 days.

Louis Schelske was born July 26, 1934 in Reliance, South Dakota to parents Adolph and Esther (Burkhardt) Schelske. He grew up on the family farm and ranch south of Reliance which his brother Ralph still owns and operates. His love of country living was with him until the day he passed.

On April 28, 1958 Louis was united in marriage to Cleo Mae Ostert. They made their home in Redondo Beach, California until Louis was drafted into the military in 1959. Louis served in the US Army until 1961 and after his discharge he and Cleo moved back to California. On April 18, 1962, Louis and Cleo welcomed their daughter Michelle Ann. In 1968, Louis and Cleo bought a home in Torrance, California where they made friends, provided a loving home for their daughter and lived the rest of their lives.

Louis worked for AT&T and really enjoyed his years working and repairing telephones. Most of his career was spent working at LAX International Airport. The favorite part of his day was morning and afternoon coffee breaks along with his lunch hour. He made lifetime friends while working at AT&T, Al Fero, Johnny Stanziole and Harry McFarlane to name just a few.

Louis was a loving husband, father and grandfather. Raising his daughter, Louis would be standing along the railing at the ice rink coaching morning, noon and night. He was also a great supporter of his grandchildren whether it was at the soccer, baseball, softball or football fields, he rarely missed a game. You always knew when Grandpa was at the game, out of nowhere you would hear "hustle, hustle, hustle." It was Grandpa’s battle cry! He was the most caring and loving man when it came to his friends, family and especially his wife. Towards the end of Cleo’s life he never left her side. He did everything he could for her just short of breathing; it was just the kind of man he was.

After Cleo’s passing Louis took up his own hobbies, riding his scooter, spoiling his grandkids, trips to Las Vegas and visiting his family back home in South Dakota. He stayed busy and active with his morning bike ride and keeping up on the local sports team. He was a big Laker fan and enjoyed going to the occasional baseball game with his daughter.

Louis can be described as nothing less than a hardworking, loving, kind, caring and supportive man. He was extremely loved by family and friends and will live on through all the wonderful memories we share of him.

Lou was loved and will always be remembered by Michelle, Dave, Amy, Melissa, and Scott. Other survivors include his brother Ralph and wife Gina; his sisters Adella Mohr and husband Jerry; Connie Surat and husband Lowell; Karen Gunter and husband Steve; and Delilah Fletcher and husband Steve, all from South Dakota. Preceding him in death were his parents and his wife Cleo who passed on February 14, 2008.