Herbert Ray Louks

Herbert Ray Louks, 93, of Bryant, Ark., went to his reward on November 25, 2021. He was born on July 27, 1928, in Bald Knob, Ark. He is preceded in death by his parents, Nola and Garland Louks; brother, Winfred Louks; sister, Irma Jean Altom; son-in-law, Selby Kennedy; niece, Jane Howard; and grandnephew, Jason Altom. Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 67 years, Patricia Ann; five children, David Louks (Kim), Judi Garrett (Steve), Steve Louks (Susan), Hoyt Louks (Nanette), and Beckie Kennedy; sister, Elwyna Helm; along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. After graduating from high school, Herbert enlisted in the United States Air Force, and was a veteran of the Korean War. After serving our country for four years, he enrolled at Arkansas State Teachers College (University of Central Arkansas), though at the time, he did not think he was college material. He graduated in 1954 with a degree in mathematics. He was a proud member of the Academic Honor Society, Alpha Chi. It was during this time he met the love of his life, Patricia Ann. A short courtship followed, consisting of cheering for "them mighty bears" and listening to Bob Cheyne, the voice of the Arkansas Razorbacks. They married on December 26, 1953. After graduating from college, Herbert began his storied career teaching mathematics in Dermott and Warren, Ark. After a short stint with the United States Geophysical survey, he began a celebrated career with the Social Security Administration. His accomplishments were many. He hand delivered the first Medicare card in Arkansas and was awarded the commissioner's citation for outstanding performance during the Medicare implementation. As both Medicare and Medicaid became law, Herbert was a frequent guest on KARK TV fielding random questions about the new benefits. His family would gather around the TV marveling at the knowledge and ease he handled such complexity. He retired in 1983 as District Manager. After retirement, Herb and Pat traveled most of the United States and Canada in their camper Herb coined "Myrtle." Herbert was a great storyteller. He loved to recount his adventures as an eight-year-old, traveling with his family to California during the Great Depression and his 18-month deployment to Greenland while in the Air Force. Herbert Ray Louks was a brilliant man, morally grounded, and very humble. He exemplified how a husband and father should live their life. He was a role model to all who were fortunate enough to know him. Memorials in Herbert's name can be made to: Saline Hospice, 400 AR-5 Suite 5, Bryant, Ark. 72022.