Louis John Appel IV

Lou is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Gayle, and their three children: Julie (James Tomsula), Jason (Annette Gerlitz Appel), and Jennell (Ray Voigt); brother Gary Appel, and by their grandchildren: Britney, Brooke (Marshall Todd), James Bear, Taiya, Hadley, and Locklyn, all of whom knew him as their biggest cheerleader and constant source of love.

Lou was born December 16, 1943, in St. Louis, MO to Louis John Appel III and Florence Appel (nee Buehler). He graduated from Lindbergh High School in 1961 before attending the University of Missouri for two years. In 1965, he joined the Marine Corps Reserve, proudly serving for six years and enduring basic training at Parris Island. He was honorably discharged in April 1971.

Lou’s passion for aviation began early and stayed with him throughout his life. After earning his commercial pilot’s license in Ft. Lauderdale, he spent years flying and delivering jets along the East Coast before beginning a career as an air traffic controller at the Miami Air Traffic Control Center (1975-1981). He received numerous commendations from the Federal Aviation Administration over the course of his career for his dedication, superior aptitude, and performance in highly complex conditions. Lou often spoke fondly of the time he spent in the tower.

In 1984, Lou shifted his focus to the insurance industry, joining Prudential Insurance, where he was known for his tireless dedication to his clients. After “retiring” from Prudential in 2004, he started an independent insurance agency and continued working up until the last months of his life—a testament to his unwavering work ethic.

Lou was a lover of all sports, but a truly dedicated fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and Miami Dolphins. He spent many years coaching middle and high school softball teams, where he was beloved by his players. He rarely missed a game or event involving his children or grandchildren, always cheering them on with pride.

Music also played a special role in Lou’s life. As the son of a Big Band Era pianist, Lou’s musical talent came by him naturally. He could sit down at the piano and play any song by ear, filling gatherings with music, laughter, and cherished memories.

Above all, Lou was a man of deep faith, humility, and service, living a life marked by devotion to his family, his faith, and his community. His unwavering kindness and quiet strength touched everyone who knew him—a life well-lived, deeply loved, and profoundly missed, yet never forgotten.

A funeral mass will be held at St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Deerfield Beach, FL on Monday, September 22, 2025 at 9:30 am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made to the Lynn Cancer Institute of Boca Raton.