Louis Norman Schilling
June 28, 2018
Louis Norman Schilling, age 78, a longtime resident of Gainesville, Florida, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at North Florida Regional Medical Center, following a short illness.
Born in 1939 in Sioux Rapids, Iowa to Alvin and Laura Schilling, Lou was a retired architect and carpenter who loved designing buildings. He began college at Iowa State University and, after relocating to Gainesville, he graduated with a BA in Architecture from the University of Florida in 1967. His most recent project at UF was as Construction Specialist for the construction of Hernandez Hall, the new Chemistry building. He thoroughly enjoyed taking his friends on “tours” of that building while it was under construction. He was also fondly referred to as “bat man”, as he designed the two Bat Barns on the University of Florida campus by Lake Alice.
He was a dedicated member of First Lutheran Church, teaching Sunday School, leading children’s messages and participating in multiple construction projects. He was always searching for ways to be helpful to others and brightened every gathering with his wit, humor, smiling eyes, and contagious laugh. He and his “stories” will be greatly missed.
He was a devoted blood donor, achieving the title of Galloneer of Distinction with Civitan Regional Blood Center, now known as LifeSouth. He donated over 17 gallons of regular platelets and red blood cells through regular donations and apheresis during his time in Gainesville.
Lou was a member of the Retired Faculty group at UF, and served on the Code Enforcement Board of Alachua County and the Board of Altrusa. He was also a 3rd degree Black Belt (Sandan) in Cuong Nhu Oriental Martial Arts, dedicated to teaching children’s classes and served as President of the National Association of Cuong Nhu for several years.
His hobbies included construction of all kinds, including furniture building, home repair, wood carving, etc. He was an avid reader.
Lou is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Julie; his four children, Serena Schilling Hatok (George), Louis Norman Schilling II (Shara), Kristin Schilling Caldwell (Michael), and James Franklin Schilling; brothers, Wayne Schilling of Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Karl Schilling (Margaret) of Des Moines, Iowa; three grandchildren, Joshua Hatok, and Jaeden and Serah Caldwell; one great-grandson, Ian Hatok; and numerous nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews.
The family requests that donations be made to the music program of First Lutheran Church.
View current weather.
Guestbook
Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle
Peace to you Lou my Cuong Nhu brother
We just learned the sad news today and immediately began remembering all the time spent with Lou. Without his participation and willingness to operate the old Cuong Nhu Center in Gainesville, assisted by his wife Julie, our style would not be what it is today. He provided continuity and "home". Bert and I wish peace and love to Julie and the rest of the Schilling family.
Will miss Lou’s children’s messages and comments in Bible study. Hugs and love to Julie and the family. Christine
One of the great privileges of being a parishioner at St. Augustine, CSC for 46 years was the opportunity for a long term relationship with Lou and Julie Schilling. This couple possessed uncommon skills and demonstrated continuous care for others. Julie sang at our son’s funeral service and Lou enlisted my help (very therapeutic for me) in the creation of a memorial for Tommy at the church central garden. Lou and I designed and built a pool workshop – cabana resembling our home. As time passed both of our families succumbed to the pressures creating the 30 year diaspora at St A’s. There is so much we miss about the "good old days". Tom Weber
Dear Julie, Lou was a wonderful human being, a most caring person, and Bill and I loved you both.
Lou always seemed to have a smile on his face and a gleam in his eye. He was a good friend to everyone and will be missed.
Lou was very special to our family. He was always willing to share knowledge and a smile. He will be missed.
Shine bright up there. Love you Ren and family.
Glen and I send our condolences for your loss. Although we grieve for his earthly presence, we rejoice knowing he is with Our Heavenly Father. We remember him fondly during our times with Cuong Nhu.
I was so sorry to hear this sad news; Lou will be missed by many people who he touched with his loving spirit and artistic talent. My sincere condolences to Julie and his family; I am so sorry for your loss. May he rest in peace. He will not be forgotten.