Nephrologist Dr. Tom Oelsner passes away; memorial set for Saturday

TOM OELSNER, M.D., a pioneer in nephrology at Touro Infirmary, died peacefully at his Metairie home on May 3, 2025. He was 88 years old.

DR. TOM OELSNER

Born in Breslau, Germany in 1937, Tom’s parents and sister eescaped with him to England in 1939. Six years later, the family found its way to New Orleans, where Tom lived a fulfilling life ever since.

He graduated from Tulane Medical School as a member of the AOA Medical Honor Society and spent his entire career at Touro Infirmary, where he became a pioneer in nephrology. He helped develop and improve early dialysis treatments and contributed to major advancements in dialysis care and technology. He would often say “There wasn’t a day in my life, that I didn’t enjoy the challenges of the practice of medicine.” He specifically appreciated his lifelong relationships with his patients. In 2017, he was honored with the Judah Touro Society Award.

His life revolved around family, passionate hobbies, and keen interests in new technologies. He was an early computer enthusiast and was an avid photographer for his entire life. He expressed himself through his lens, capturing unique black and white photographs that solidified him as a master of his craft.

Dr. Oelsner combined his photographic talent with art by combining images he took with camera and superimposing them onto slates, which could be mounted on walls or displayed on tops of tables or cabinets. He was one of several Jewish artists who participated in the “Jewish Art and Jewish Artists” event at Congregation Beth Israel on Dec. 1, 2013.

Other profound interests he enjoyed were traveling, sailing, dining, and traveling by motorhome. He particularly loved red wine and chocolate and his favorite all time saying was “eat dessert first.”

Dr. Oelsner is survived by his wife of 67 years, Marilynn Loeb Oelsner, his children Gary Oelsner (Lisa), Lauren Oelsner Greenberg (David), and David Oelsner (Michelle), his nine grandchildren and his two great grandchildren.

Family and friends are invited to attend the Celebration of Life tomorrow, Saturday, May 10, 2025, in the Event Center at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home beginning at 2:00pm until 4:00pm with celebratory tributes at 3:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, if you wish to make a donation, please consider the Amyloidosis Foundation, Jewish Children’s Regional Service, or a charity of your choice.