Dr. Charles H. Oestreich

1932 - 2025

Dr. Charles H. Oestreich
June 8, 1932 - October 30, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Charles H. Oestreich, age 93, President Emeritus of Texas Lutheran University (TLU). As we remember him, we honor a life well lived, as a teacher, scholar, and leader whose work helped shape Texas Lutheran University and whose legacy endures in the lives of those he influenced.
Born in Columbus, Ohio, June 8, 1932, Dr. Oestreich earned a Bachelor of Science from Capital University, followed by an M.S. and Ph.D. from Ohio University. He joined the TLU faculty and administration in 1969 as the Academic Dean, later serving as the university's President from 1976 to 1994.
During his leadership, Dr. Oestreich oversaw significant growth in the university's academic programs, faculty development, campus infrastructure, and institutional mission. His stewardship strengthened TLU's reputation as a thoughtful, values-based liberal-arts institution rooted in the Evangelical Lutheran tradition and provided a foundation for its continued success.
Beyond the institution, he was known among colleagues and students for his integrity, scholarly curiosity, and genuine devotion to the educational and personal growth of those around him. A document from 1971 shows his early advocacy for developing the Mexican American Studies Program at TLU, reflecting his attention to diverse student needs and inclusive academic planning.
Dr. Oestreich served on and chaired numerous boards, including the Council of Independent Colleges, Independent Colleges and Universities of Texas, VP of St. Luke's Lutheran Health Ministry, the Mid-Texas Symphony, and EdenHill Communities. He was a member of the New Braunfels Conservation Society and a Rotarian. He participated in numerous international Rotary trips, including efforts to secure books for schools in Africa.
Dr. Oestreich enjoyed traveling with his wife, Rhoda, to various domestic and international destinations, playing bridge, and researching genealogy. He authored two volumes on family history titled Our Heritage. Above all, he cherished attending his grandchildren's events and welcoming his great-grandchildren into the family.
Charles H. Oestreich married Rhoda J. Haseley in 1957. Charles and Rhoda were married for almost 65 years before her passing on August 1, 2022. He is also preceded in death by his parents, the Reverend Henry F. Oestreich and Martha E. (Schwartz) Oestreich, and his sister, Ruth M. Harsch. Charles is survived by his daughters Martha Oestreich, Mary Cooper (Jill), and son, David C. Oestreich (Jo Beth), grandchildren Jennifer M. Shira (Mark), Matthew R. Shira (Jennifer), Robert D. Oestreich (Courtney), Dr. Andrew W. Oestreich (Jordan), and great-grandchildren, Elizabeth M. Shira, Heinrich R. Oestreich, Ivy Grace Oestreich, and Josephine Marie Oestreich, step-grandchildren Amanda N. Stephens (Eric) and Lindsey D. Yazbek (Ryan), step-great grandchildren Theodore I. Stephens and Lillian E. Stephens, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Dr. Oestreich will be remembered not only for his exemplary leadership but also as a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, mentor, educator, and friend. His legacy was defined by faith, family, institutional strength, educational opportunities, and dedication to community service.
A memorial service for Dr. Oestreich will be held on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 at 1 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in New Braunfels with the Reverend Paul Owens officiating. A reception will follow. A private family graveside service will be held at Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Dr. Charles H. Oestreich Scholarship, c/o Texas Lutheran University, Development Office, 1000 West Court Street, Seguin, Texas 78155, or to St. Paul Lutheran Church, 777 W. San Antonio St, New Braunfels, TX 78130.
You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.