One of my fondest memories was attending an annual Wonton Throw down in Oceanside . Lou, Liz, Betty and Penny graciously adopted us into their fold as neighbors and service members. The common thread of footsteps led us to meet and soon admire Lou's infectious sense of humor, gentle demeanor and healthy competition. After fierce, yet loving participation and judging roles, it came time for the desserts. His utter love of engaging with people, zest for life and love of family was palpable as he and Liz went head to head with apple pies. No more beautiful a soul have we lost far too early. Knowing he will forever live in our hearts and memory is comforting. We have the watch for you dear Lou.
Louie, You leave a great hole that no one can fill!
Louie is an amazing man - full of life, always up beat, interested in promoting our youth... I could go on and on.
You will be dearly missed!
I had the good fortune to meet Lou (and LIz!) 35 years ago, when we were all assigned to Offutt AFB, NE. We were assigned to "teams" (though not competitors - we were collaborators). Liz and I worked the aircraft end of the project, and Lou worked the submarine part of the business. I knew the airplane business - I flew them. But I knew nothing, other than what little I read about or saw in the movies, about the submarine business. Lou became my "silent service" instructor. With stories both instructional and hillarious, I learned about what life was like on a "cruise." But here is the crown jewell of what Commander Yoe taught me: although we were involved in a tremendously serious endeavor, we shouldn't ever take ourselves too seriously. From his daily pranks and infectious charm, he proved that everyone, from the four star bosses, to the Colonels and Captains who tried to ride herd on us, had a soft center. Commander Lou Yoe gets the blue ribbon for being the most appropriately irreverant person I've ever met. My great regret is that I only got to serve one assignment with him. My great privelage is that I count him as one of my mentors and friends. Fair winds and following seas, Commander. You will be missed by all.
