Ormond Beach philanthropist Lowell Lohman dies at age 80

Lowell Lohman, who owned 60 businesses in his lifetime, was known for his and his wife Nancy's significant contributions to various nonprofits and causes in Volusia County.


Lowell and Nancy Lohman listen to Mayor Bill Partington speak during the topping off ceremony for The Cupola at Oceanside on Thursday, Nov. 30. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
Lowell and Nancy Lohman listen to Mayor Bill Partington speak during the topping off ceremony for The Cupola at Oceanside on Thursday, Nov. 30. Photo by Jarleene Almenas
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Ormond Beach philanthropist and longtime businessman Lowell Lohman died at 80 years old on Tuesday, Oct. 28.

Lowell and his wife Nancy have made significant contributions to various nonprofits and causes in Volusia County, including the Ormond Memorial Art Museum, Volusia County Schools, the dog-friendly beach in Ormond, Halifax Humane Society, Halifax Health and the Museum of Arts and Sciences. The museum's planetarium now bears their name, thanks to a $2.5 million gift in 2021. 

Various of the organizations whom were touched by the Lohmans' generosity over the years took to social media to express their condolences to the family.

"Lowell Lohman was a remarkable man whose life reflected generosity, strength, and vision," Halifax Health stated on Facebook. "He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, businessman, athlete, and friend."

The hospital wrote that Lowell, who had Type 1 diabetes, never let it define him. 

"Instead, he used his journey to inspire and uplift others," the Facebook post states. "Through his wisdom, compassion, and relentless drive to make a difference, Lowell touched countless lives and built a legacy of hope that continues to shine brightly. His spirit of giving lives on in the care and kindness extended to every patient and family our Halifax Health - Lohman Center for Diabetes & Endocrinology serves — a true reflection of a man who gave so much of himself so that others can thrive with diabetes… as he did."

A statement by VCS expressed gratitude for the Lohmans' continued partnership that helped create the Lohmans' Museum of Arts and Sciences Field Study in 2021. The initiative allows all VCS fifth and eight grade students to visit MOAS for a day of science education. Transportation and admission costs were covered by the Lohmans.

"Lowell’s vision was clear: every student, regardless of background, should have access to hands-on science learning," VCS stated. "Thanks to the couple’s generosity, more than 40,000 students have explored science, technology, and space in unforgettable ways, like when Lowell joined in on the fun by dressing as an astronaut. Lowell's legacy of inclusion, curiosity, and generosity will continue to inspire generations to come."

Rep. Chase Tramont wrote that Lowell was a "true pillar of our community." 

"Lowell’s life was defined by service, generosity, and a steadfast commitment to improving the lives of others," Tramont said. "... He and his wife Nancy have set a powerful example of what it means to give back, to invest in people, and to build a stronger Volusia  County and a better #Florida."

Lowell Lohman, a graduate of Florida State University, owned 60 businesses in his lifetime, including Lohman Funeral Homes. The Lohmans sold the business in 2012, refocusing their family's entrepreneurial efforts to owning over 4,000 apartments.

Most recently, the Lohman family constructed The Cupola at Oceanside, a 12-unit luxury townhome development in Ormond Beach.

 

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