Posted by Robert St. Louis on October 12, 2010:

At West Point, Donald O'Shei was in Company D-1 and consequently lived close to me in C-1. I knew Don to be a true and close friend, especially to those in need. He had a reputation for being the best coach for his academically challenged companymates and he tirelessly contributed his time and unique ability to explain the complexities of theory and practice, working with them with infinite patience, until they could successfully pass their examinations. Donald never judged people. He was also a skilled debater with an amazing total recall that drew from a virtually encyclopedic memory built from his love of reading. While we were good friends there, we really bonded at Fort Bragg, NC where we were both aides. Our wives, Betty Jean and Mary Lou met there for the first time and instantly became lifelong best friends for over fifty years as did our children. We strengthened the bond while attending the Army War College, Class of '73. We jointly hosted a 50's party that demonstrated some could still wear their "pinks and greens." We particularly enjoyed perusing local Carlisle antique shows where Don started his presidential campaign button collection that has grown to a valuable treasure trove of over twenty volumes. After our respective retirements, we grew even closer. I worked with Don to set up a geothermal project in the Philippines which he managed very successfully. He later used his organizational abilities to produce another large energy project, valued over $100M, on his own, that is currently providing electrical power to the Filipinos. Clearly, he was a terrific Army Engineer! We took many trips together, visiting Europe and Asia, frequently with our families. From 2001 to 2009, we vacationed together in Hawaii every year. You could say we were effectively an extended household comprising the O'Shei and St. Louis families. So, we now feel a great sense of loss with the passing of Don O'Shei, following BJ by just 15 months. It is very difficult to accept but we are sustained by the wonderful memories of our time together and the pride he felt for his three sons, Don Jr., John and Ross, who survive him. These precious memories will remain with us forever. Love, the St. Louis Family

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