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George Oechsner Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for George Oechsner
Marie S
August 23, 2012
Hi Sonny, the laughter that you provided to all of us is more than words can express. You captured my heart in so many ways. I will always remember you from our Loyola Physics class that awesome summer in 1963. 1963 is a very special year to me in so many ways. I will pray for you. Put in a good word for me. We will meet again. Love Marie
April 10, 2012
Sonny you will be deeply missed by so many friends and family,you will never be forgotten.We all love you Thank You a close friend.
LAURA DRUMM
April 1, 2012
Shelly, just heard about your dad and wanted to send my prayers and thought to you. I loved your father. Pat O's was such a part of my younger days. I hope you are doing ok...
Laura Y. Drumm
New Orleans
Joseph Edwards
March 28, 2012
I just learned of what happened. Sonny was truly a great friend as well as a great boss. He will be sorely missed. God bless you all.... Ex Pat O' Briens bartender Joseph & wife Lynda Edwards.... [email protected] / 985-639-1534
J Barre'
March 22, 2012
Sonny was truly a Prince of a Man and a genuine human being. As a French Quarter resident back in the late 60's there was a special sense of community.Passing by Pat O'Briens and chatting with Sonny always brought a smile or some insightful comments.He could talk with you while simultaneously do 6 other things.Always taking care of his guests and business.Hard working, dedicated and down to earth in a kind and caring way.I always associated Sonny as Pat O'briens.He was the driving force.A kind and good hearted,handsome man with a quick smile. God be with him and his children.
March 18, 2012
Sonny was the best. He will be missed .
Regina Oechsner Bentin
March 17, 2012
Blessed are You, loving Father, for all your gifts to us.
Blessed are You for giving us family and friends to be with us in times of joy and sorrow, to help us in days of need, and to rejoice with us in moments of celebration and remembrance.
Father, we praise You for Your Son Jesus, who knew the happiness of family and friends, and in the love of Your Holy Spirit.
Blessed are you for ever and ever.
Amen
Dad, I will miss you so much......I love you
March 17, 2012
I met Sonny many years ago he was a great man God Bless your Family
Sonny: Halfback for Tulane Football
March 17, 2012
Sonny and Charlie Cantrell at Pat O'Brien's Bar
March 17, 2012
Sonny with the famous hurricane drink
March 17, 2012
Kathy Hulsey-Seeling
March 17, 2012
My prayers are with Mr Sonny's family during this time. New Orleans has lost a wonderful citizen. But his legacy will live on....
John Ammerman
March 16, 2012
Our condolences to Shelly, Regina and family, from Tulane Football alumni everywhere. Our prayers are with you and your families. You dad will be missed.
March 16, 2012
Lisa Greenleaf
March 15, 2012
Gina & family,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. May God give you the strenght to get through this difficult time. My prayers are with you and your family. Lisa Danner Greenleaf
Miriam Martens
March 14, 2012
Dear, Shelly.
Everyone is deeply saddened on the sudden passing of your father. Sonny was a great boss and all of us who work for Pat O's thought the world of him and will miss him very much. I know this is a difficult time for you, however, if it is any consolation, Sonny was very much admired and respected, and I can truly say that I have never heard an unkind word spoken about him.
Please extend my deepest sympathy to your wonderful family. May you all find the strength and courage to get through the days ahead.
My thoughts and prayers will be with you.
March 14, 2012
Regina and Shelly, we send our condolences on the lost of your beloved father. He will be missed by so many people who's lives he touched. We remember watching Sonny play ball for St. Aloysius and Tulane University with such great pride. He was a great athlete. There are many great memories of our days at Mamere's house on holidays. He will be rembered in our thoughts, prayers and our hearts. We loved him. Kenny and Nancy Champagne
Michael Cascio
March 14, 2012
My deepest condolences to Regina and Shelly your father was a great man whom everyone loved.I was honered to work for him. Michael J. Cascio
March 14, 2012
I was simply a patron of Pat O in my early years where I met the kind and classy Sonny. He was always friendly & caring to all. he made everyone feel special. My group of friends wish his family fond memories of this loving man. God be with you. He made Pat O a world-wide success, a testament to his loving heart. Pat C
Jill Norman LeBlanc
March 14, 2012
Shelley and family, I just learned of Mr. Sonny's passing. I am so sorry for your loss. I remember with fondness working for you, Bill, and your dad. He was always so nice to me and I'm proud to have worked at Pat O's during his tenure.
Debi Landry
March 14, 2012
Sonny was very good to us after my dad died and he was always smiling and happy when I saw him. I'll remeember many happy hours visiting with him in the Main Bar and Patio years ago. He will be missed, but now his body can rest and he's at peace. All my prayers to Shelly and the rest of your family and his plethera of employees and friends. <3
March 14, 2012
+-Dear Regina
My sympathy and prayers go out to you and Shelly.
May it be a comfort to you knowing that others care.
Sorry I was unable to be with you today.
Love
Meryl Hogh
Capt. Eddie Castelin
March 14, 2012
A truly honorable man of his word. I don't think God made two like him. He will leave a huge hole in lots of lives. I'm proud to have called him Friend
Kenny Spellman
March 14, 2012
On behalf of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart Alumni Association and Brother Martin High School, I offer our prayers and condolences.
Kenny Spellman '84
Alumni Director
Trish Otto
March 14, 2012
As a former "camera girl" @ Pat O's I still see Sonny holding court at the end of the Main Bar. He was always dignified, and treated me with courtesy. My condolences to the family.
Trish
Wright Waters
March 14, 2012
Shelly, I just learned of you Dad's passing and I regret I am not in town to pay my respects. Your Dad was special and his impact on so many people will be felt for years into the future. He gave of himself and expected nothing in return. He could make you laugh when you thought there was no joy in the world and he could cut through the chatter and keep the conversation honest. As your Dad was always there for us know that we are now here for you and your family with our thoughts and prayers.
Dan Cazaubon
March 14, 2012
"To a lifelong friend who will be surely missed. Our deepest sympathies go to Sonny Oechsner's family".
Dan Cazaubon & Family
Dixie Prentice
March 14, 2012
My husband Mark and I spent many an afternoon in the main bar at Pat O'Brian's in the 70's and 80's as a member of the Frenth Quarter family at that time we respected Mr Sonny for the business man and person that he was. He will be missed
Gilda Oliver Barger
March 14, 2012
Valerie - I'm sorry to read about the passing of your brother. From the comments, it sounds like he was a wonderful man whom everyone loved. My condolensces to his entire family. Hope you remember me as Duchie from the old neighborhood.
Jan Cox
March 14, 2012
Dear Shelly,
Our sympathies and prayers go out to you at this time. Your dad was a rare person and will be sadly missed, especially by the entertainers.
Sue Imbraguglio
March 14, 2012
To the Oechsner Family ...My Thought's and Prayers are With You and Your Family at this Very Difficult time..Sorry for the Loss of Such a Wonderful Person....I did Ms. Henrietta's Hair for Many Years and had the Pleasure of Meeting SONNY ....All she Ever Talked about was her Precious Sonny...Thank YOU for the Wonderful Legacy you have left Behind to Be Enjoyed By Many..the GREAT Pat O'Briens....Now YOU are with Your Mom n Dad... RIP..Sonny....GOD BLESS. Sue Imbraguglio
Betty Blossman
March 14, 2012
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Cindy and Al Mancuso
March 14, 2012
We hadn't seen Sonny in many years, but have so many fond memories of him. We were just kids back in the 80s hanging around the farm while we were in college, visiting at Pat O's and having breakfast with him next door, but he was so accepting and good to us. He helped us celebrate our wedding and the birth of our first child. And, he was there to console us when we lost Al's dad. Sonny will be remembered forever as someone very special to us. He will be greatly missed.
Henrietta Alves
March 14, 2012
I'm only one of hundreds whose lives were changed and made better by Mr. Sonny. I hope it gives comfort to Shelly, Regina and all those close to him to know that he was much loved by so many people.
Morris Reed
March 14, 2012
Sonny was one of the most brighest and genuine persons I know. He gave without the expectation of getting something in return. He possessed a true love for our City, its people and its unique culture. You are missed. Love to his entire family and extended family at Pat O'Brien's.
Terry Bourque
March 14, 2012
Truly Mr. Sonny was the most caring and "nicest" man I had ever met. He gave me so much I don't know that he ever realized how much he helped me. He will be sorely missed. Peace to you Mr. Sonny and to your family.
Gia Sausse
March 14, 2012
Dear Shelly ~
Our hearts go out to you and we wish for you and your entire family, and all those who knew and loved your father, peace and comfort. I think back to our recent lunch and us talking about you growing up in the business under your father's guidance and influence... what an amazing history and legacy he leaves, not only in the business he fostered to iconic status, but more so in what he fostered in his family, friends, and employees.
I can't help but chuckle fondly at the thought of so many New Orleans families' favorite photos being a succession of generations on first dates at Pat O's, mine included. So much fun ~ what a life he must have had! I'm sure he was very proud of you. Sending you lots of love.
Michele Tamplain
March 14, 2012
My sympathies go out to Shelly, the Oeshsner and Pat O'Brien's families. It was a great honor and privledge to work for Sonny and Pat O'Brien's. Sonny led by example, a hard worker, a tremendous leader and mentor to so many of us who knew him. He leaves a vision and legacy for his family and the city of New Orleans that is uniquely his.
Rosemarie Beaudean
March 14, 2012
Valerie and Family:
I am so sorry to hear about Sonny. I wish I could be there for you as you were there for my sister in October. I know he truly will be missed. Please contact me and let me know if I can do anything for you. I know he is in Heaven looking down on all his family and friends.
Rosemarie Tramuta Beaudean
Spencer Theard
March 13, 2012
When the Lord calls our loved ones home, he leaves a gift of memories in exchange. In this time of sorrow hold on to your memories and let them guide you during this time of sadness. We will continue to keep the Oechsner family in our prayers.
Spencer and Angela Theard
Spencer Theard
March 13, 2012
When the Lord calls our loved ones home, he leaves a gift of memories in exchange. In this time of sorrow hold on to your memories and let them guide you during this time of sadness. We will continue to keep the Oechsner family in our prayers.
Spencer and Angela Theard
Al Gremp
March 13, 2012
I first met Sonny over 30 years ago and at the time he appeared to be a tough business man, but that was not the Sonny I later got to know and have always remembered. Sonny was a true Christian in the many ways he helped people, and not just his friends. I had seen and know of his many generous acts and not only through giving money. When difficult times happened, there was Sonny to give you words of encouragement. My only regret is that we did not stay closer but the memories will always be there.
My deepest sympathy goes to his daughters and family and all who have known and loved Sonny.
Eva Barkoff
March 13, 2012
Some 38 years ago when I turned 18, I went with my sisters, brother-in-law and friends to celebrate at Pat O'Brien's. My family had gotten to know Sonny and thanks to that 18th birthday celebration, I got to know him too. I don't ever remember not seeing Sonny at work, often in the main bar, watching and enjoying the tourists and locals alike. He was always so glad, so happy to see his regular customers, many of whom were his good friends. And as a frequent visitor for many years, I saw first hand the respect and admiration the employees of Pat O'Brien's had for Sonny. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Oechsner family.
Deanie Kirkpatrick
March 13, 2012
New Orleans and the French Quarter has lost a man who always took care of his family and employees with style. Pat O'Briens was a great place to work and Sonny and "Mr. George" were both great bosses. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to his family and the Pat O'Briens employees.
Karen Martin
March 13, 2012
Shelley, Charlie, the Oeschner Family and the entire Pat O's organization--My DEEPEST sympathys to all of you. I am truly devastated upon hearing this news. Sonny is and was the brightest light/along with his father that shown on me when they hired me to work at Pat O's. I am forever grateful for that time in my life-The Gumbo Shop will NEVER be the same early in the morning without his presence. The world will never feel the same again just knowing that he isn't in it anymore. My heart is so heavy and my sorrow is unending. He truly was a champion of men and humanity.
March 13, 2012
Sincere condolences to the Oechsner familiy. George had been a loyal and true friend since our days in the Boy Scouts, high school days at St. Aloysius and his days at Tulane. My wife and I were always proud to call George "Sonny" Oechsner our friend.
Richard and Anna Lea
Baton Rouge, LA
Alvin Babineaux
March 13, 2012
This is for my boss, my friend and all around great southern gentleman George "Sonny" Oechsner who has gone home. Please everyone who knew him raise your glass for him and wish him a fine ado! This wonderful person gave me a livelihood for 42 years and allowed me to do what I love. Thank you Mr. Sonny I love you as my father figure be with GOD now. I hope you start the best bar in heaven. We will continue to HAVE FUN for you and keep the family tight for Shelley. You will truly be missed by your two friends Batman (me) and Robin (Barbara)
March 13, 2012
DEAR VALERIE AND FIDEL, SORRY FOR THE PASSING OF YOUR LOVED ONE. WE PRAY GOD'S PEACE FOR YOUR FAMILY. JUDY & JOHN WEAVER
Sharon Ford
March 13, 2012
Rest in peace
March 13, 2012
Shelly and Greg,
Uncle Wayne and I would like to express our sincere condolences to you and all your family. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers at this time.
Aunt Jane
Darlene O'Brien
March 13, 2012
Our thoughts and prayerss go out to the Oechsner family. Sonny was a well liked and great person. We knew him when Mr. Pat and his father George were the guiding forces behind the bar and Sonny took it to highest levels of pure entertainment and fun. Everybody had to go to Pat O'Briens. Thanks for everything. From the O'Brien Family in Georgia.
Danielle O'Brien
March 13, 2012
I never had the pleasure of getting to know "Sonny"or my papa Pat O'Brien, but it's warmed my heart and made me proud to see what he's done with Pat O'Briens. He will definitely be missed.
Jimmy Collings
March 13, 2012
Sonny was my boss in 1982-83 and he had respect for me and my fellow bartenders. God bless and thanx for the things I learned working under you.
Victoria Amato
March 13, 2012
Shelly and family-
I am so sorry for your loss, and so grateful to have had Sonny as a boss for so many years. He preached loyalty, but certainly practiced what he preached, and his influence will be felt for many years to come.
charlotte O"Connor
March 13, 2012
A great loss for the people not only from New Orleans, but all around the world. My deepest sympathy to his family and friends.
Jerry Melchiode
March 13, 2012
Dear Shelly and Family,
We were deeply saddened to learn of Sonny's passing and would like to express our heartfelt sympathy and condolences to you and your family at this most difficult time.
Sincerely,
Gerald A. Melchiode
On Behalf of Galloway, Johnson, Tompkins, Burr & Smith
Terry Adcock
March 13, 2012
I was so sad to hear about Sonny's passing. Although we had not seen each other in quite some time, it was always fun to think back about growing up at my MawMaw Hilda's and Memere's (Na-Nen's to Sonny and the cousins) and the huge get-togethers when we were all young. My deepest condolences to the family. Rest in peace.
March 13, 2012
Our prayers and love are sent to The Oeschner family, my family who were long time friends of Sonny and to the city of New Orleans for the early loss of such a patriarch as Sonny Oechsner. He always had a smile, grace and pride in his conversation of his family and children. May the great memories stay with you always and your hearts full knowing he shed great light on so many! Truly, David and Darlene Perret Harrison,
Dallas, TX
Dave Mobley
March 13, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with the Oechsner family during this difficult time.
Cindy Reynolds Clark
March 13, 2012
Uncle George was a GREAT person, my heart is heavy with the news. My prayers are with you, Gina, Shelly, and Aunt Diane. I will always remember growing up with the family. I remember going to my first Saints game in Tulane Stadium with all of you. There are some very special memories I will never forget. Uncle George was a kind, generous, and fun loving person.
My prayers are with the family.
C Palmer
March 13, 2012
May God Bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Draw close to God and he will draw close to you. James 4:8
March 13, 2012
Our sympathy to the Oechsner family. Sonny was a great guy and we know how much he will be missed. Frances and Mary Louise Glynn
March 13, 2012
Sonny was a quiet giant who did so much behind the scenes for French Quarter Festivals, the Vieux Carre and the City of New Orleans. I will always remember his leadership and generosity, and feel privileged to have known and worked with Sonny. My heart goes out to Shelly and the Oechsner family, as well as Charlie and the staff. Sonny made a big difference in the lives of so many. He's truly left a legacy.
Marion Perret II
March 13, 2012
Mr. Sonny was friend's with my father. I ate breakfast with them by Pat O's several times when I was younger (about 16). Upon leaving one time he looked at me and said, "hey you have anything in your pockets", I said, No. He crammed a $100 bill in my pocket and said, "now you do". We all laughed - it was from out of the blue. As time passes and we all travel on our own ways some things stand out. He was a great man he helped set me on a path to success a long time ago. Sad to hear he fell ill and pray for for him and that his family find peace.
Scubie Hoyt
March 13, 2012
You will truly be missed!
Scubie Hoyt and Family
Sid Seruntine
March 13, 2012
To Shelly and the entire Oechsner family.
My heart was heavy when I got Charlie's call. I'm so sorry for your lose. Sonny was a tremendous influence in my life and led me by his example of hard work and loyalty. I will miss him dearly. My prayers are with you all. Rest in peace my friend.
Fritz & Gretchen Dyer
March 13, 2012
Our prayers are with you during this difficult time. Sonny will always be in our prayers and thoughts. Fritz will treasure his friendship forever and has many wonderful memories of a good friend. God be with you and your loved ones.
Mary Cay Kern
March 12, 2012
My deepest sympathies go out to the entire Oechsner Family and the Pat O'Brien's Family. I had the privledge to work for Sonny. He leaves a great legacy for the famiy and the City of New Orleans! He will be sadly missed by all.
Enjoying a day fishing!
Lynn Arceneaux
March 12, 2012
Judy & Lynn Arceneaux
March 12, 2012
Our sympathies go out to the Oechsner family. What an awesome guy, he will be missed. He did know how to enjoy life! Hope he has found a great fishing hole upstairs!
Bill Bradshaw
March 12, 2012
My deepest sympathy to Shelly and the Oechsner family. "Sonny," through Pat O'Brien's, has provided the world with one of the most classiest and fun-loving venues around. Sonny's longtime contribution to New Orleans is deeply appreciated and will be sorely missed. Rest in peace, Sonny.
Peter Briant
March 12, 2012
The community will miss one of the nicest guys in the world !! What a loss.
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