Louis R. Mott

Louis was preceded in death by his parents, William B. and Marcella (McLaughlin) Mott; his sister, Barbara Godwin; brothers-in-law Floyd Godwin and Craig McConnaughey; sister-in-law Virginia Mott; his father and mother-in-law, Harley and Cecilia Haldeman, his brother-in-law Lawrence Haldeman, as well as his nephew Jack Healy.

Born on May 16, 1938, in Urbana, Ohio, Louis graduated from St. Mary’s High School in a class of twelve students. A standout student academically and basketball player, he was frequently featured in the local paper for his precision shooting and outstanding success on the court. He went on to attend Kent State University, where he was an active member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity, before beginning his career as a math teacher and varsity basketball coach at Columbus Aquinas High School. In 1964, through a common friend, Louis met the love of his life and his future wife,Terrie Haldeman, an elementary school teacher, and the two were married in 1965.

He often shared how a chance conversation with a friend directed his life toward pursuing a career in dentistry, ultimately guiding him to earn his degree from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. His years in dental school were especially meaningful to him as he juggled coursework, labs and exams with supporting his growing family as a tennis pro at both Northam Park and Brookside Country Club. He cherished being known as the only graduate in his class who was already the proud father of four children under the age of five when he received his DDS degree. After graduation, Louis established a dental practice in London, Ohio, serving his patients with compassionate care and dedication for 33 years. He is remembered as a dentist who frequently offered reduced fees and assistance to those who needed help.

Tennis remained a lifelong passion for Louis, so much that he built a tennis court at the family home. It became the backdrop for countless memories—singles and couples matches, tennis lessons, lively basketball tournaments, family reunions, Halloween parties, weddings and celebrations with family and friends that will be cherished forever.

Louis’ family was his proudest legacy. He is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years,Terrie, and his 6 children: Michelle Mott of San Diego, California, Megan Phillips of Dallas, Texas, Marcie (Amar) Elaasar of Charlotte, North Carolina, Melissa Schoemer of Columbus, Ohio, Meredith Garofalo of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Michael Mott of Columbus, Ohio, and 9 grandchildren: Hunter and Savannah Phillips, Ethan, Ava and Lyla Elaasar, Sydney, Reid and Audrey Schoemer, and Stella Garofalo.

That Louis left this earth on Thanksgiving feels especially meaningful, a fitting reflection of a man who approached his life with gratitude, compassion, and a deep joy in giving to others.

A celebration of life and memorial mass will be held during the family’s annual Christmas gathering. To honor Louis’ life, which was guided by the spirit of giving, memorial gifts are welcomed to be made to a charitable cause of your choice.