Louise Tawater

Louise Tawater, a beacon of strength and love, transitioned into eternal peace on April 26, 2024, at the age of 82, following a valiant three-year battle with ALS. Born on April 12, 1942, in Houston, Texas, to her devoted parents Hubert and Elizabeth Schoellman, Louise's life was one of resilience, love, and faith.

Louise, a twin whose sister passed at birth, was one of nine siblings, which consisted of six girls and three boys. She leaves behind a legacy of love, survived by her cherished children and their spouses: George (Tammy) Tawater, David Tawater, Michael (Tonya) Tawater, Kerry Tawater, Chris Tawater, and Toni (Mark) Buffington. Her memory lives on through her adored grandchildren and their spouses: Cameron (Kerri) Tawater, Cody (Kristen) Tawater, Chandler Tawater, Alexandria Hutchins, Alivia (Corben) Barnett, Mollie Buffington, Payton Tawater, Sidney Tawater, Titan Tawater, Sierra Tawater, Cheyenne Tawater, Daulton Tawater, Taylor Tawater, Katy Kinard, and Taylor McClenahan. Louise is also survived by her two sisters, Irene LaFonck and Pauline Hight, and numerous great-grandchildren.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Hubert and Elizabeth Schoellman, along with her siblings Louis Vaughn, Danny Schoellman, Howard Schoellman, Mary Stephens, Cleo Brown, and Robert Schoellman. Additionally, Louise mourned the loss of her son-in-law, Matthew Hutchins, Sr., and her grandchildren, Matthew Hutchins, Jr., and Christopher Hutchins.

Louise grew up in a home with little means, but had very loving parents.  She remembered her father’s sacrifices when she was going to beauty school.  He would sometimes get up extra early for her to take him to work, so she didn’t have to take the bus. Her mother always wanted to give hugs, tell jokes, and could play the piano by ear.  Her mom was a happy person, in spite of having very few comforts in life. Her parents’ love and positive attitudes carried over into how Louise raised her own children.

Rooted deeply in her faith, Louise's life was a testament to the strength found in Christ. As a single mother, she faced life's storms with unwavering determination, pouring her love into her children with every breath. Her loyalty extended beyond her family, fostering lifelong friendships that sustained her through every trial. 

Despite the challenges of single parenthood, Louise never missed a beat, attending her children's events with unwavering support. Her children's successes, from business ownership to athletic achievements, were a source of immense pride and joy for her.

Louise embarked on a 59-year career as a hair stylist, earning her Cosmetology and Barbering License at Barry's Beauty College in Houston at the age of 18. She worked her way through beauty college by working at the Chuckwagon, a local burger joint in Spring Branch, Texas.  Her talent and passion for her craft touched lives in Liberal, Dallas, and Tulsa, where she worked until the age of 78.

In her leisure, Louise found solace in the pages of books, the excitement of college football and Dallas Cowboys games, an occasional trip to the casino or bingo hall, and the thrill of a good movie, particularly James Bond flicks. Her evenings were often spent in the company of loved ones, sharing stories over a glass of wine and savoring the bonds of family and friendship. She always wanted to be where the party was, and was almost always the last one to leave the dance floor.

One of Louise’s highlights was going to Las Vegas each April for her birthday with her daughter Toni.  For her 60th birthday, the family surprised her by showing up at her hotel for breakfast one morning and spent the weekend celebrating her special occasion.

A "Celebration of Life" will be held at Schaudt Funeral Service, located at 5757 S Memorial Drive, Tulsa, OK, on Thursday, May 9th, at 2:00 pm, with a reception to follow from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made online to the ALS or Team Gleason Foundations, supporting ALS patients in obtaining essential equipment for improved quality of life.

Expressions of sympathy and cherished memories can be shared online at schaudtfuneralservice.com, honoring the remarkable life of Louise Tawater, whose love and legacy will forever endure in the hearts of those she touched.