Three wars, one lifetime of service: Remembering Lou Schindler
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO)-- A Colorado Springs community gathered today to honor the life of Louis “Lou” Schindler, a decorated Army veteran whose service spanned three wars and more than a century.
From World War II to Vietnam, Lou’s legacy extended far beyond the battlefield. Friends and caregivers say he lived quietly, humbly and always in service to others.
KRDO13 spoke with those who knew him best about the man behind the medals and the impact he left behind.
Louis Schindler lived 101 years and spent much of that time serving others.
Born in 1924, Lou enlisted in the U.S. Army during World War II and went on to serve in Korea and Vietnam.
He earned the combat infantryman badge three times, an honor awarded to only a small number of soldiers, along with dozens of other medals for bravery and service.
But at today’s funeral in Colorado Springs, friends say Lou never wanted the spotlight.
"Humble it was beyond…I wanted to have a book written about his service, and he said he'd rather have a cup of coffee," said Brian Hills, one of Lou's close friends and caregivers through the years.
After retiring from the army, Lou continued serving for nearly two more decades with the American Red Cross, supporting military members across branches.
Those closest to him say service wasn’t something Lou did; it was who he was.
"Well, what a kind-hearted guy he was," said Vincent Scalzo, a Korean War combat Veteran who personally knew Schindler. "He was always there for ya if you needed him."
Outside of his military life, Lou was known for his independence and his love of travel; he visited 50 countries, read constantly, and stayed connected to the world well into his later years, all while living quietly here in Colorado Springs.
His close friends tell KRDO13 he loved growing plants, playing the lottery and reading war books. He was also quite the baker.
"He lived a great life, just short of 102 years old, and just up until recently, he would do everything for himself, made the best apple strudel on the planet, and took care of a lot of people in a lot of ways," said Hills.
At today’s service, American flags, military honors and personal stories painted the picture of a man whose legacy reaches far beyond medals or titles.
For those who loved him, Lou Schindler will be remembered not just as a soldier but as a friend, a mentor and a hero whose impact will live on.
Ruby, who is one of Lou's friends from the Red Cross, spoke with Lou every Sunday, and she said he was one of a kind, gentle, very humble, thoughtful, generous and quiet. She said Lou used to say, "Don't look back, you're not going that way, the view ahead is so much bigger and brighter and full of promises and fresh starts."
Lou never sought recognition for what he did, but today, those who loved him say remembering his story is one way to honor a life spent serving others.
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