Louise Antonelli Straus

Louise Antonelli Straus, born August 16, 1922 in Norwich, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2022, at the age of 99. She was preceded in death by her parents Cecelia Cedrone Antonelli and Antonio Antonelli; her brothers Charles, Lawrence, Frank, Patrick and her sister Jeanette. Louise Antonelli Strauss parents immigrated from San Donato Val Di Comino, Italy to Norwich, Connecticut on April 28, 1910.

Louise went to high school in Norwich, Connecticut and she graduated from Columbia University. Before moving to San Antonio, Louise lived in New York where she worked in a medical lab associated with Columbia University, eventually heading up the facility. As a change of pace and to have more fun, she went to work for Pan Am Airlines as a stewardess and also model for The Fashion Bureau Agency in New York City.

In addition to raising a family, Louise was active in several businesses. She was a member of La Sirena, a gallery of Mexican art that opened on the San Antonio River. She was secretary of the corporation, creating cultural programs and events for the city.

Louise was involved with numerous community activities including The Charity Ball Association, where she became an honorary member, Friends of the McNay, The Childrens Hospital Foundation, The Battle of Flowers Association, San Antonio Art League and the San Antonio Symphony. Louise was the General Chairman of the statewide Galaxy Ball that worked with the Texas Association for Mental Health. For many years, she was on the board of the University of the Incarnate Word, where she chaired their developmental campaign. She was a member of the San Antonio Country Club and The Argyle. She was a devoted member of St. Lukes Church and participated in a bible study group.

Louise played volleyball and softball during high school and later became an avid golfer with two hole in ones to her credit. She played at many golf courses throughout the U.S. with her lifelong friends. She worked with the 50th National PGA Championship that was held at Pecan Valley Country Club. She also enjoyed her bridge games at the San Antonio Country Club. Her favorite music was from Dean Martin, of course, because he was Italian. She was "the Little Ole Lady from San Antonio" that drove the 442 Convertible, and most times, way too fast.

Louise was small in stature, but she had a "hair trigger" of a temper, which served her well in raising four sons. She said that "life has many ups and downs, but she has had a good life. She was proud of the family that she raised and she felt that she didnt owe anyone. Ive done the best that I could do, and my family is the most important thing to me. I have a lot to be thankful for."

Louise is survived by her four children: David Straus III (Jan); F. Anthony Straus (Cary); Steven Straus and Daniel Straus. Louise is also survived by her eleven grandchildren: David "Cuatro" Straus IV, M.D., Jesse Carter (Ben), Jacob Straus, Collin Straus (Emma), Alec Straus, Perry Straus, Selia Straus, Steven Straus, Alyse Sellers (Webb), Natalie Straus, Renee Bous (Alex). Five great grandchildren Aria Bous, Emilie Sellers, Catherine "Porter" Sellers, Georgia Carter, and Collin "Tito" Straus.

The family wishes to extend special thanks to Leondra White, Gail Dixon, Maureen Kelleher and Lisa Aviles for their caring friendship and loyal service. Also many thanks to Dr. Bradley Shipman, Dr. Michelle Gonzaba and their staffs for their healthcare advice, which certainly helped with her long life. The family wishes to express our sincere appreciation for all of the prayers and kind wishes from our friends.

There will be a private church service for family members at St. Lukes Episcopal Church. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice.