Louis M. “Lou” Best, 67, beloved son, husband, brother, and friend, was called to his eternal resting place on November 10, 2024. He entered this world on February 24, 1957, in Bowling Green, OH, born to C. Mitchell and Norma Hatfield Best.
He is survived by his wife, Tanya Tomlin Best, and their last remaining cocker spaniel, Teddy. Also surviving are his sisters, Kathy Best of Bowling Green, OH, and Margaret (Jim) Burlingame of Indianapolis, IN; a brother-in-law, James C. Dowling of Bay Village, OH; and a host of other loving relatives and close friends from coast to coast.
Louis was a 1975 graduate of Bowling Green High School and went on to earn both music and Juris Doctor degrees from The Ohio State University. He began his professional career as a band director for Louisville City Schools (OH) but later worked as an attorney for a Sidney, OH, law firm. He held positions at Louisville Title and American First Title in Toledo and most recently at Crown Search Services of Columbus. Additionally, he operated his own title examination company, Pheasant Tail Title Services, LLC.
Lou had a multitude of interests in life. His love of music led him to perform in the snare line for the Anaheim Kingsmen (CA) drum and bugle corps and serve as a staff member for the Toledo Glassmen drum and bugle corps. His passion for dogs and wildlife inspired leadership roles in the Wood-Lucas Pheasants Forever chapter and the We Are Outdoors organization. A lifelong baseball fan, Lou followed the Detroit Tigers faithfully through their wins and losses. His devotion to Alabama football led him to visit all the SEC stadiums, the Aloha Bowl, and the Rose Bowl, where he witnessed the Tide win a National Championship game.
In recent years, Lou enjoyed playing percussion in the Bowling Green Area Community Concert Band and the BiG Band BG.
Memorial contributions, in lieu of flowers, may be made to the BG Area Community Bands, the Aldo Leopold Foundation, Inc. (for land conservation), or a charity of one’s choice.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 21, 2024, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Deck-Hanneman Funeral Home, 1460 W. Wooster Street, Bowling Green. Funeral services will follow on Friday, November 22, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home.
Online condolences and fond memories may be shared with the family by visiting www.hannemanfunealhomes.com.
