Dr. Thomas Oelsner

Dr. Tom Oelsner, 88 years old, peacefully passed away in his Metairie home on May 3, 2025. Born in Breslau, Germany, on March 19th, 1937, Tom’s parents, Robert and Irene Oelsner, along with his sister Ursula Oelsner, escaped to England in 1939. Six years later, they found their way to New Orleans, where Tom lived a fulfilling life ever since.

Tom graduated from Tulane Medical School as a member of the AOA Medical Honor Society and spent his entire career at Touro Infirmary, where he became a pioneer in Nephrology. He helped develop and improve early dialysis treatments and contributed to major advancements in dialysis care and technology. He would often say “There wasn’t a day in my life, that I didn’t enjoy the challenges of the practice of medicine.” He specifically appreciated his lifelong relationships with his patients. In 2017, he was honored with the Judah Touro Society Award.

Tom met his wife Marilynn Loeb when he was 16 and she was 15. They’ve since achieved an abundance of life goals and memories in their long and adventuresome life together. They recently celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary.

Tom’s life revolved around family, passionate hobbies, and keen interests in new technologies. He was an early computer enthusiast. An avid photographer for his whole life, Tom expressed himself through his lens, capturing unique black and white photographs that solidified him as a master of his craft. Other profound interests of his were traveling, sailing, food, and motorhoming.

Tom is survived by his wife Marilynn Loeb Oelsner, children Gary Oelsner (Lisa), Lauren Oelsner Greenberg (David), and David Oelsner (Michelle), and his nine grandchildren: Michael (Marissa), Ryan, Josh (Ari), Zachary, Andrew, Molly, Sasha (Caroline), Oliver, Julian, and his two great grandchildren Henley and Josephine to whom he was known as Opa. He is also survived by his niece Maya.

We are in deep appreciation to Dr. Eduardo Rodriguez, Dr. Frank Wilklow, Dr. Adam Lick and Dr. Sheryl Martin-Schild.

Tom loved red wine and chocolate and his favorite all time saying was “eat dessert first.” May his memory, thirst for life, and joyful spirit live in all of us and be passed down to our children.

Family and friends are invited to attend the Celebration of Life on Saturday, May 10, 2025, in the Event Center at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home beginning at 2:00pm until 4:00pm with celebratory tributes at 3:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, if you wish to make a donation, please consider the Amyloidosis Foundation, Jewish Children’s Regional Service, or a charity of your choice.