Louis H. Sheiffele

Louis Harold Sheiffele Jr. 91, was peacefully embraced by God, on September 28, 2024, at home in St. James, N.Y., surrounded by his devoted family. Born in New Haven, Connecticut on June 16,1933, eventually he moved to Long Island, residing most of his life in North Babylon, N.Y.  He is survived by the love of his life, his treasured and loving wife of 67 years, Lucille, his dear daughter Wendy and son-in-law Rich, who was thought of like a son, his most cherished grandchildren Courtney (Kevin) and Connor, his brothers John Bannon (Kelly) and Eddie Sheiffele (Ellen). He was predeceased by his father, Louis Harold Sheiffele, mother Catherine Cronogue-Bannon, sisters Doris Driscol, Patty Miller and many friends. 

Corporal Louis Sheiffele, was a Jumpmaster in the 11th Airborne Division Angels. Later, he worked  for Grumman Aerospace in Quality Control, receiving an Achievement Award for appreciation of dedicated service to the nation. This award was for the team’s advancement of the nation’s capabilities in aeronautics and space, culminating in Apollo 11’s successful mission of man’s first landing on the moon, July 20, 1969. A highlight was Walter Cronkite, coming to Bethpage, to interview his department for a CBS News Special. He enjoyed being a member of the Grumman baseball team, as well as the bowling team, achieving the perfect 300 game. He could often be found gardening, playing golf or at monthly poker games with his long-time poker buddies. Seasonally, he was an avid Yankee fan and an enthusiastic Dallas Cowboy fan. Most of all, he loved being with his family, the most important thing in his life. He was so immensely proud of both his grandchildren and never missed an opportunity to be there for them. He was overjoyed to attend opening night, when Courtney achieved her dream of becoming a Radio City Rockette and elated when Connor secured a job with his beloved N.Y. Yankees. 

These words from The Notebook, feel like they could have been written for him, “I am nothing special; just a common man with common thoughts and I’ve led a common life. There are no monuments dedicated to me and my name will soon be forgotten. But in one respect I have succeeded as gloriously as anyone who’s ever lived. I’ve loved another with all my heart and soul; and to me that has always been enough.” 

He will be greatly missed, but never forgotten by his family. They will always remember his loving kindness, incredible generosity, unwavering support and constant presence in their lives. He will live on in their many stories, wonderful memories and grateful hearts forever.  

A funeral mass will be held at St. Patrick’s Church in Smithtown, on October 8, 2024, at 10:30 am followed by a military interment at Calverton National Cemetery. 

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