May 26, 1942 – January 27, 2022
Louis Stanley Vihtelic passed away on Thursday, January 27th in Federal Way, Washington. He was born to Frank and Lillian Vihtelic in Detroit, Michigan, on May 26, 1942. He was 79 years old.
Louis spent most of his childhood in Whitehall, Michigan. He was a member of a large family with 8 siblings, 6 brothers and 2 sisters. After graduating from high school and attending college, Louie joined the military.
After leaving the Air Force, he worked in the aerospace and aircraft industry in numerous countries. When he returned to the states he worked for Boeing in Seattle, Washington for many years.
Louie lived a very interesting life. He worked and traveled all over the world, visiting/living in over forty countries. One of his favorite sports was scuba diving. Louie has said that some of the best times of his life were snorkeling in the Red Sea, which was virtually untouched in those years. Louie loved the outdoor life and participated in all sorts of activities afforded him in the Seattle area. He enjoyed fishing, camping, hiking and gardening. Louie was particularly fond of wildlife and had a great appreciation for the beauty of nature.
Louie was an admired member of the family, and it was a big event when he would return to Michigan for a visit. All family members have a “Louie Story”. He was very generous with friends and family, especially his mother, Lillian. His generosity gave her many wonderful trips over the years.
Louie leaves behind siblings; Lawrence (Sue), Mary Premo (Roger), John (Mary), Joseph (Jill), Martha, James, sister-in-law Laura, and his beloved Aunt Sally – additionally; many cousins, nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. He was pre-deceased by his wife Barbara, his parents, brothers Frank and Charles, and his nephew, Daniel Castonia.
There will be a celebration of his life this summer in the Whitehall area, the date to be determined. The family suggests those wanting to remember Louis with a donation, please contribute to the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center, Tavernier, Florida. www.missionwildbird.com
