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Welcome to the memorial page for

Louie Tabor Jr.

February 25, 1950 ~ September 1, 2015 (age 65) 65 Years Old
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Message from Eric Shively
July 10, 2022 10:42 AM

Worked with Lou at saramar aluminum, we used to go fishing alot had some great times ,I remember when his son was boring. He was a gentle giant used to play basketball with him at his house in Niles. Never forget him RIP LOU.
Message from Mark Knepper
September 19, 2015 1:21 PM

To the Tabor Family and Leslie my friend, I am sorry for your loss. Just losing my father this same month I know the grief your family suffers. My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Message from Morgan Rife
September 18, 2015 8:46 AM

I would like to offer my sincere condolences for your loss. The Bible offers us comfort for times such as these. At Acts 24:15, it says, " There is going to be a resurrection." The Bible also gives us this hope for the future at Revelation 21:4, "And he will wipe out every tear from our eyes and death will be no more." I hope these words have brought you comfort. If you would like to have more information, please feel free to visit our Bible-based website at www.jw.org.
Sincerely,
Morgan Rife
Message from Carmen Mattocks (BCBSNC)
September 14, 2015 10:13 AM

Jada, my sincere sympathies and prayers go out to you and your family during this incredibly difficult time. I pray for peace and comfort for you and your family today and the days to come.
Message from Rusty and Mary Sue Featherstone, Edmond, Oklahoma
September 8, 2015 3:46 PM

To the Family and Friends of Lou Tabor Jr. My wife, Mary Sue and I would like to offer our fullest thoughts, condolences and love to all of you and especially to Lou.

I first met Lou in 1969 as Teammates and Freshman at Wichita State University. He was one of the nicest guys I've known, a great player and he was also so full of humor, I would begin to just chuckle almost anytime I saw him on campus!

As an Offensive Lineman, with Lou on Defense, I would have the occasion to block him at "full speed" (as they say) in scrimmages. While we were friends, we both knew that these were the times we had to perform to the best of our abilities to reach the top of the Team Position Charts to be considered "Starters" in each game. Whenever my blocking assignment called for blocking Lou, I knew I was going to be in for a hard hit which I was determined to provide as well, and first.

The part I remember most, however, was just before we would collide, I would see his big smile through his face-mask. That smile didn't lessen the hit he gave, but confirmed our friendship and respect for each other as athletes and men, as did the effort we would both make to help each other back up when the play was over, giving each other that "Pat on the Back" or a simple word of encouragement.

As you know, as players, our college experience wasn't what we had expected it would be because of the Accident in 1970. But a valuable and lasting part of that experience was the closeness that developed among the remainder of the team (including Lou and I) as a result of our collective losses. As such, we try to communicate with each other through our Team Web site even if it's just to wish each other a Happy Birthday. Additionally, I and many others who still live in, or near enough to Wichita to drive in for the Annual Memorial Services, try to make it back to Wichita each year to remember and rededicate our lives to those team members and friends we lost that day.

I was so glad I had been able to make the trip on one particular day, because I was there when Lou made an unexpected return trip to Wichita. Because of the long distance for many of the players who came from the East like Lou, we never expected to see them make the trip to the Memorial Service that often. On that day (it might have been the 30th Annual Memorial Service in 2000, when the University made a big push to try to get everyone to come back), just as the Service was readying to begin, a tall black man with graying temples came slowly walking up, and at first, many of us didn't recognize who it was, but as we watched we all started to recognize that smile and that walk. You can add some weight and age lines to the graying hair and cause confusion, but you can't change the smile and the walk of "Big Lou" Tabor! From what I heard, I believe it was a surprise to everyone there, but truly a wonderful and well received surprise for all of his teammates present. After the service, Lou made the rounds and spoke to each and every player there, even some of the younger players whose names aren't recalled easily these days, who came along after the crash, but understood the impact it had on everyone and began attending out of respect. As I stood on the opposite side of the Memorial waiting my turn to greet Lou, I watched him with that big Grin and Smile going man to man with handshakes and his signature, strong but gentle Hugs. I don't know if he made it back any other time over the years, but I know everyone there that day was so glad to get to see him. For me, I can still close my eyes and see him walking up that day, to the Memorial; or see him extending his hand down to help me up when I may have "let him" win a particular "One on One," instance with me; or see him from the sideline when it looked like our opponent was going to break away and make a big run, then "Big Lou" would rise up out of the masses and haul the ball carrier down! And let me tell you, once he had you... he had you!

I guess my only regret was not being around at the time of this medical procedure so I could help him up one more time! But I believe that our Father has a plan for all of us, and like our teammates in 1970, Lou had finished God's work here and it was time for him to go on to his next life. And I am sure he will be there waiting for the time all of you join him, and he'll be smiling and waiting to give each of you a Big Lou Tabor Hug! Please look forward to the day that the pain of Lou's passing is gone and all you have then are the warm, loving and funny memories of Louie, that you will have forever and be glad! You got to spend quality time with a really special person that not everyone gets to experience.

May God Bless and Watch Over All of You!
Rusty and Mary Sue Featherstone
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A candle was lit by Rusty and Mary Sue Featherstone, Edmond, Oklahoma on September 8, 2015 1:58 PM
Message from Nancie Hinks Richardson
September 7, 2015 7:24 PM

I got to know Lou, personally and up close, at WSU in the 70's. He was the sweetest funniest guy around who was always the center of loud music and good times. All of us who knew him then, will always have a sweet spot in our hearts for "Big Lou"
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A candle was lit by Paula Moore Tabor on September 5, 2015 1:32 PM
Message from M. Yvonne Coursson
September 5, 2015 12:15 PM

You were a great team player& wonderful guy---your sense of humor with my brother, Coach Shaw was sooo much fun---my prayers to your family & frinds---you WILL be missed
Message from Kramer Family
September 5, 2015 12:03 PM

Prayers to the Tabor Family. Lou was a great guy.
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A candle was lit by Don Kramer Family on September 5, 2015 12:01 PM
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A candle was lit by Demetrieuse on September 5, 2015 11:24 AM
Message from Valerie McCullough
September 5, 2015 11:19 AM

Lou was a wonderful man who will be deeply missed by many people. My thought & Prayers are with his family at this difficult time.
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A candle was lit by David Reese on September 5, 2015 10:48 AM
Message from David Reese
September 5, 2015 10:48 AM

To All of Lou's family, my deepest sympathy goes out to everyone, Lou was a Great Man! I will miss the Gentle Giant. My name is Dave Reese and when I seen Lou He would always say hey is Davey still in the Navy. Lol! Him laughing with the great laugh he had From a Billy Joel Song! Lou Loved his Music. I'm in Recovery also and would see Lou from time to time at Meetings. He was and still is a great encouragement to me. I'm Sorry for not making it to Service! May he be at Peace in Heaven with the Good Lord!!! God Bless! Sincerely David Reese.
Message from Latoya & Ava Williams
September 5, 2015 10:35 AM

Jada, our deepest condolences to you and your family... Prayers and blessings & may God give you and your family peace, love and comfort in the upcoming days... know that your father loves you and will always be here watching and protecting and loving his baby girl... love you ♡
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A candle was lit by Vicki Starcher on September 5, 2015 9:51 AM
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A candle was lit by Lynn Rozier on September 5, 2015 9:25 AM
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A candle was lit by Jessica, Eric, Kinsley, Lachlan on September 5, 2015 7:16 AM
Message from carl e. cook, d.d.s.
September 5, 2015 12:50 AM

lou was a cherished client/friend for about 25 years in my office, and in fact, i saw him just a week ago............
lou and i connected on so many levels, and i am privileged to have known him for all these years. whether it was about music, life, love, or living, we shared our thoughts and i truly feel enriched for his influence in my life.........
rock on, lou....rock on...............
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A candle was lit by S on September 4, 2015 10:06 PM
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A candle was lit by Dejuana & Family on September 4, 2015 9:34 PM
Expression of Sympathy

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An AZALEA PLANT was sent on September 4, 2015

With Deepest Sympathies Anthony, Dawnell, Nicholas, and Christopher Viole

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A candle was lit by Tedrick Family on September 4, 2015 5:12 PM
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A candle was lit by Dee, Will, Jordan, Dillon, and baby Chandler McClain on September 4, 2015 2:21 PM
Message from Dee McClain
September 4, 2015 2:17 PM

Jada and Dwan,
I did not have the opportunity to meet your father. But what I do know that your kindness and mannerisms is something that is taught by your parents so that speaks to the person your dad must have been. I want to extend my most sincerest condolences to you and your family. May God continue to cover and protect you through this process.
Love,
The McClain family Will, Dee, Jordan, Dillon, Chandler, as well as the 4 legged babies PJ, Sasha and Lil Dog.....
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A candle was lit by J Flores on September 4, 2015 12:59 PM
Message from Janelle Richey
September 4, 2015 12:40 PM

Jada-
Please accept my deepest condolences to you & your family.

Janelle
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A candle was lit by Janelle Richey on September 4, 2015 12:39 PM
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A candle was lit by JoAnn Sutton on September 4, 2015 12:09 PM
Message from Kim Cocklin
September 4, 2015 11:55 AM

I played against Lou when Massillon played Niles in 1968. I played with Lou at WSU. A great teammate, a better person. A great laugh and wonderful sense of humor. We lost an MVP. The Lord had bigger needs for his team and got Lou. May God Bless and Comfort the family.
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A candle was lit by kim cocklin WSU teammate on September 4, 2015 11:51 AM
Message from Durham, NC
September 4, 2015 11:50 AM

My condolences to Jada and her family. May you all get the comfort that is needed during this time and in the future...

Katoya Wallace
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A candle was lit by Tamara l Todd on September 4, 2015 11:49 AM
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A candle was lit by Deidre Hall on September 4, 2015 11:17 AM
Message from Deidre Hall
September 4, 2015 11:16 AM

My, sincere condolences to Jada and the entire Tabor family,
Peace and Blessings to you all.

Deidre Hall- Brooklyn, N.Y.
Message from Cambridge
September 4, 2015 11:08 AM

Jada and family, You have my deepest sympathy with the passing of your dad. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Nancy Galbreath
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A candle was lit by Nancy Galbreath on September 4, 2015 11:06 AM
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A candle was lit by Warren and Pat Barkell, Teammate from WSU on September 4, 2015 9:59 AM
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A candle was lit by Tara Thomas on September 4, 2015 8:45 AM
Message from Tara Thomas
September 4, 2015 8:44 AM

Lisa and family,
I am sorry for the loss of your loved one. Please know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

With love,
Tara Thomas
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A candle was lit by Joanne Sortini and family on September 4, 2015 5:36 AM
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A candle was lit by Jeannette Singleton on September 4, 2015 1:10 AM
Message from Will C.
September 3, 2015 11:40 PM

I am terribly sorry to hear about Lou's passing. Like so many others have shared he gave amazing hugs and was one of the most caring people I've had the pleasure of meeting in the rooms. When he shared during meetings he didn't say many words, but the words he did say were always concise and I always got something positive out of it. He will be deeply missed!
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A candle was lit by Will C. on September 3, 2015 11:35 PM
Message from Patricia Truss
September 3, 2015 10:00 PM

May God Bless you;my thoughts and prayers are with each of you especially my sister-in-law Martha.Remember the joy and laughter with Lou and let this bring a smile to your face .I love you; Martha.Patsy
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A candle was lit by Jen Kiernan on September 3, 2015 9:53 PM
Message from Jen Kiernan
September 3, 2015 9:53 PM

I'm so sorry and sad for your loss. I didn't know Mr. Tabor well, however my family and I would talk with him at his grandson Javon's baseball games. My son Eddie played Niles baseball with Javon the past two years. Mr. Tabor was at every one of Javon's baseball games. He was proud of his grandson.
Message from Marsha and Al Zavar
September 3, 2015 9:50 PM

We were so shocked to hear of Lou's passing. We are sending our love and sympathy to the entire Tabor family. He was a sweet gentle man and will be missed by so many.
Message from Ken Criswell
September 3, 2015 9:38 PM

Joaquin, Les and Nancy, Geoff, and the entire Tabor family, I am so sorry for your loss. I talked with Lou last week outside of the city building where we exchanged hugs and a handshake. He said he was doing well and was going to have knee surgery.

I am honored to have known Lou, his father, Mr. Tabor, and the entire Tabor family. I am so sorry for your loss and very saddened by his Lou's passing.
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A candle was lit by Your friend, Ken Criswell on September 3, 2015 9:32 PM
Message from Rick misel
September 3, 2015 8:51 PM

Wow. Could not believe it when I saw it in the paper. We worked together at U.S. Steel. We had great times. He was one of those guys that even if you didn't see him for awhile he always had a great smile and that wonderful laugh. He always treated you like his best friend. He will be missed. God bless Lou and family.
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A candle was lit by Dominic and Martha DeJerolme on September 3, 2015 8:50 PM
Message from Nick Liguori
September 3, 2015 8:43 PM

Very sorry to hear of Lou's passing. He was a great man and one of the best athletes ever to play football & basketball at Niles McKinley.
He will always be remembered. RIP Lou..🙏🏻

Nick Liguori
Vero Beach FL
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A candle was lit by Bobbi Boggs on September 3, 2015 8:40 PM
Message from Bobbi Boggs
September 3, 2015 8:40 PM

To the Tabor family, I want to send my deepest sympathy to you. Louie made me feel welcome when I moved to Niles several years ago. He will be deeply missed especially his kindness and smile.
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A candle was lit by Charles Ring Jr. on September 3, 2015 8:20 PM
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A candle was lit by Linda Keiber and family on September 3, 2015 7:36 PM
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A candle was lit by Stephanie Hall on September 3, 2015 7:33 PM
Message from Stephanie hall
September 3, 2015 7:32 PM

Sorry for your loss the family is in my thoughts and prayers
Message from Domenic Pallante
September 3, 2015 7:14 PM

So sorry for your loss...Lou was a great guy and part of a great family.
Message from catie grabowski and jason herron
September 3, 2015 6:20 PM

tawnyka and family.
we are so sorry for the loss of your dad. our prayers and thoughts are with you. we love you guys very much.

Jason and Catie
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A candle was lit by Denise and Denny Bianco on September 3, 2015 5:46 PM
Message from Rocco
September 3, 2015 4:55 PM

My condolences to Joe and the entire Tabor family
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A candle was lit by Rocco Bowell on September 3, 2015 4:54 PM
Message from Deb & Steve Devorich
September 3, 2015 4:34 PM

Les, Nancy and family we are so very sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers.
Message from Home
September 3, 2015 4:32 PM

I did not really know him but he lived across from our son sorry for u your loss I know whAt it is to loss u pArents
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A candle was lit by Deb & Steve Devorich, We are so sorry for your loss on September 3, 2015 4:30 PM
Message from James Salerno
September 3, 2015 4:11 PM

I remember Lou well. A great athlete. I believe we attended Jefferson grade school. Lou was a very friendly guy. We played football together. I send condolences and prayers to those that survive Lou. Surely there is a place in heaven for this father, son athlete, man and most of all friend. God bless you.
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A candle was lit by James Salerno on September 3, 2015 4:06 PM
Message from Frances Prayor-Singleton
September 3, 2015 3:43 PM

To the Tabor Family: My thoughts and prayers are with all of you! I met Mr. Tabor when he was inducted into the Ebony Sports Hall of Fame! He will be missed! God Bless you all!
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A candle was lit by Nancy LaBruno Jayne on September 3, 2015 3:39 PM
Message from Felicia Stephens
September 3, 2015 3:16 PM

Jada and family...
Sorry to hear of the loss of your father. May you be comforted in knowing that your extended family and friends are lifting you up in prayer. I offer my sincerest condolences.
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A candle was lit by Rick and Judi Henninger on September 3, 2015 3:15 PM
Message from Andrea Hallas
September 3, 2015 2:52 PM

My deepest condolences. Louis was an amazing wonderful kind person and he will be deeply missed
Message from Ann Alston
September 3, 2015 2:32 PM

Jada
I am sadden to hear about the passing of your faher, I am praying for you and your family that God will give you peace.
Message from Teresa Pollock
September 3, 2015 2:25 PM

Jada I am so sorry about your loss. Thinking about you and your dear family. Love you
Message from Kathi Hooper
September 3, 2015 2:15 PM

I'm so very sorry for your loss, Jada. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
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A candle was lit by Ralph Nolen, & Beth Francis on September 3, 2015 1:51 PM
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A candle was lit by Hayley Platt on September 3, 2015 1:44 PM
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A candle was lit by gail biamonte on September 3, 2015 1:39 PM
Message from Larry Joseph
September 3, 2015 1:37 PM

Sincere condolences.
Larry Joseph
Expression of Sympathy

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A TABLE BASKET was sent by Heather, Jessica, Kat, and Karen on September 3, 2015

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A candle was lit by Karen Frederick Staib on September 3, 2015 12:53 PM
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A candle was lit by Joanne and Tom Ingledue with sincere condolences. on September 3, 2015 12:42 PM
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A candle was lit by John Maiorca (Little Johnny ) on September 3, 2015 12:41 PM
Message from "Little Johny" (John Maiorca )
September 3, 2015 12:36 PM

Junior's passing has triggered numerous childhood memories, basketball, football in the street, fishing behind the A&P, among others. Sincerest heartfelt condolences.
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A candle was lit by Kenetha Davis on September 3, 2015 12:27 PM
Message from Kenetha Davis
September 3, 2015 12:27 PM

Jada and Family,
I would like to extend my sincerest condolences and prayers on the loss of your Father. Words at times may seem inadequate to express the sorrow felt by the loss of a loved one. But, please know that I am thinking of you all and praying for peace and comfort during this difficult time.

Sincerely,
Kenetha (BCBSNC)
Message from Patty
September 3, 2015 10:52 AM

May God Bless....His memories will live in Niles forever..
Message from Kirsten Weber
September 3, 2015 9:49 AM

Dear Lisa and Family,

I'm blessed to have Lisa joining Cincinnati Speech and Reading Academy. I've just recently met Ms. Tabor but I'd like to pass along my condolences to you and your family. I will keep y'all in my prayers!

Warmly,
Kirsten Weber
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A candle was lit by Ashley Kristanc on September 3, 2015 9:40 AM
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A candle was lit by Bruce Laraway on September 3, 2015 9:33 AM
Message from Bruce Laraway
September 3, 2015 9:32 AM

My deepest sympathy to Lou's family and loved ones. I have fantastic memories growing up with Lou, Joey and the entire Tabor family. I am so very sorry at the loss of a special friend.

Bruce Laraway
Message from Denise Frankos
September 3, 2015 9:28 AM

My dear Cindy and family, I am so very sorry for your loss. Please know u r in my thoughts and prayers. May the Lord give u comfort and strength through this. Love you my friend.
Denise Frankos
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A candle was lit by Tom Davis on September 3, 2015 9:22 AM
Message from Dave F.
September 3, 2015 9:07 AM

Condolences all. For 3 years, i knew Lou a bit. He'd be really serene at mtgs. He was really the nicest dude around. I had the opportunity to be the speaker at his last meeting. I did not know it at the time of course, but I hope the last message he heard was as good as any others and as good as the message he shared with us.
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A candle was lit by Jacky Lukz maggio on September 3, 2015 9:01 AM
Message from Jacky Lukz Maggio
September 3, 2015 9:00 AM

My condolences to your family I will always remember Louis Tabor he was a wonderful man when he walked into a room he lit the world I will always have the deepest and fondest memories of him may he rest in peace
Message from Austintown, Ohio
September 3, 2015 8:45 AM

Lou was our "across the hall" neighbor in Niles for 6 years at Timber Creek, and he was one of the best people in the entire world. He was always so pleasant, kind and his hugs were so fantastic. We always loved to chat with him when we saw him, and I never saw anyone so happy to get baked goods! :)
My husband Gary has known his family for quite a while, and losing this sweet-hearted man is most assuredly a terrible loss for not only his family but the world. We will miss you, Lou. But we will always, ALWAYS keep you in our hearts and thoughts. You were the best neighbor in the world, but now you're the best neighbor in heaven! We love you Lou, and we will miss you so much!
Kendra and Gary Godiciu Jr.
Message from Richard Harris
September 3, 2015 8:43 AM

God Bless your ongoing journey Lou. May your family always remember that big smile. I will never forget our conversations.
Message from Judy Geer
September 3, 2015 8:30 AM

We want to extend our most sincere condolences to you and your family on the loss of your father and grandfather. We always looked forward to his pleasant smile and conversation when he picked up Jevon. He will be missed.

Judy and Lori from Noah's Ark
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A candle was lit by Clayton & Beverly Hall on September 3, 2015 8:29 AM
Message from Judy Geer
September 3, 2015 8:23 AM

We wish to send you and your family our most sincere condolences on the loss of your father and grandfather. It was always a pleasure to see Lou when he came to pick up Jevon. He always had a smile and pleasant conversation. Sometimes he would stop by just to say "Hi!" We will miss him.

Judy
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A candle was lit by James Rverman on September 3, 2015 7:51 AM
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A candle was lit by John Dailey on September 3, 2015 7:28 AM
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A candle was lit by tina mishata on September 3, 2015 7:06 AM
Message from Ralph Cartino, Jr.
September 3, 2015 7:00 AM

My Thoughts and Prayers are with you all. May the Lord comfort and keep all of you at Peace during this time.
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A candle was lit by cheryl campbell on September 3, 2015 6:02 AM
Message from Dawn Cox
September 3, 2015 4:23 AM

Tawnyka, my deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family, I'm so sorry for your loss.
Message from Linda Cheeks Pittano
September 3, 2015 2:25 AM

Sorry for the loss of your loved one. Prayers for all the family and God's loving arms around you all.
Message from jean vaccaro-carroll
September 3, 2015 12:46 AM

Les & Nancy & family

Sorry for the loss of your loved one
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A candle was lit by jean vaccaro-carroll on September 3, 2015 12:45 AM
Message from Jamie Swift
September 3, 2015 12:29 AM

Lou I will miss you so much!!you was so fun and loving and awesome!!your hugs will be missed by me and so many others.... R.I.H.
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A candle was lit by Jamie Swift on September 3, 2015 12:27 AM
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A candle was lit by Kat Bradley on September 3, 2015 12:16 AM
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A candle was lit by Mena Miller on September 2, 2015 11:42 PM
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A candle was lit by Bill, Christine, and Amanda Collier on September 2, 2015 11:30 PM
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A candle was lit by Sally Martin on September 2, 2015 10:53 PM
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A candle was lit by CVS Pharmacy in Niles on September 2, 2015 10:43 PM
Message from CVS Pharmacy in Niles
September 2, 2015 10:42 PM

Mr. Tabor will be greatly missed at CVS pharmacy. We loved talking to him every time he came in. He was so friendly and nice. We are so sorry for your loss. Our deepest condolences.
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A candle was lit by John and Laura on September 2, 2015 10:12 PM
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A candle was lit by Shante Cox on September 2, 2015 9:46 PM
Message from Shante Cox
September 2, 2015 9:46 PM


I just wanted to let you know you are in our thoughts, and please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Our prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Message from Kieli Ferguson
September 2, 2015 9:27 PM

Lisa and Family,
From our family to yours, we are praying for peace and comfort during this difficult time.

Ferguson Family
(Cincinnati)
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