Geissinger and Le
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Upon retiring in October 1968, he had logged a total of 1 year, 7 months, and 2 days in foreign services. He chose to live in Ocean Springs, MS because the Gulf Coast was his favorite place where he was stationed. Geissinger found a career in teaching and taught various history courses at Vancleave and East Central High School. Additionally, he volunteered time teaching English to recent immigrants, creating many strong relationships with his students. One student, Tham Le, and her family became an extension of his own. Every time Geissinger and Le went out to eat, he would finish every meal with a large bowl of ice cream topped with Cool Whip no matter how full he claimed to be. Geissinger became involved in Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Biloxi, where he attended mass every Sunday and served as a 4th degree member in the Knights of Columbus, Saint Vincent DePaul, and Militia Immaculata. He practiced charity and gave back to the community through this organization. |
Geissinger with two of his grandchildren, Maya (left) and Metaya (right)
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After being diagnosed with lung cancer, doctors predicted he only had a few months left, so he moved in with his youngest son, Mark, and his family. Geissinger ended up living for another year. At age 84, Geissinger died on September 28, 2008. He was preceded in death by his wife of 47 years; he was survived by his six children and eleven grandchildren. His funeral was held October 3, 2008 at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Biloxi, MS. Today, he is buried alongside other veterans at the Biloxi National Cemetery.
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