Louis Rothhaas, 83

Louis Rothhaas, 83, owner of Louis Meats in Cincinnati, died on Feb. 9. He served in the United States Army Band as a trumpeter before returning to Cincinnati in the mid-1950s to become the fourth generation to take over the family meat store. His sons, Rick and Rob, are now the fifth generation to run the business.
“Uncle Lou,” as he was known, created a thriving business that became deeply entrenched in the Cincinnati African American community. He led by example and treated every customer who walked in the door like family.
The “Uncle Lou’s Gives Back” initiative was founded on Lou’s core beliefs about how customers should be treated. This program helps organizations such as local food banks, soup kitchens, Boys & Girls clubs and veteran groups. It honors his many years of paying it forward.
Lou was an avid golfer and longtime member of Western Hills Country Club. He attended Westwood United Methodist Church and volunteered at My Neighbors Place food pantry. A memorial service is scheduled for Feb. 20. Donations in his honor may be made to the Evans Scholars Foundation; 2501 Patriot Blvd, Glenview, IL 60026 or www.wgaesf.org.