William Arthur Lohse, age 80, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2025 in Charleston, SC, leaving behind a legacy of love, generosity, and integrity. Bill was known for his sense of humor, strong work ethic, and his commitment to his family and community. He was an avid boatsman, tropical fish and turtle enthusiast, and lover of all animals, having a special affinity for sea turtles and an abiding concern for their protection. Bill was an early member of the South Carolina Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Guardians and took great pride in his commitment to ensuring their survival.

In keeping with Bill’s love for sea turtles, we hope that you will help us build upon his legacy by making a contribution to the William A. Lohse Fund for Sea Turtle Rehabilitation. Your generous gift will allow the South Carolina Aquarium to continue the important work of rescuing and saving these beautiful creatures.

ABOUT THE WILLIAM A. LOHSE FUND FOR SEA TURTLE REHABILITATION

The William A. Lohse Fund for Sea Turtle Rehabilitation will support the efforts of the South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Care Center to rescue, rehabilitate and release sea turtles off the coast of South Carolina.

The Sea Turtle Care Center aids sick and injured sea turtles in partnership with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). When a sea turtle is found sick or injured, SCDNR is the first to respond. With a network of dedicated, permitted volunteers across the coast, each stranded sea turtle is taken into caring hands to be transported to the Aquarium at a moment’s notice. These sea turtles may suffer from debilitated turtle syndrome, predation and boat strike wounds, entanglement in marine debris, accidental interactions with fishermen and even exposure to dangerously low temperatures.

Following their rescue, the Sea Turtle Care Center triages each sea turtle patient using diagnostic imaging, bloodwork and physical exams. With a suite of medical care available — including surgical procedures and laser therapy — doctors treat them on an individualized basis. Each patient receives a high-quality diet, enrichment and regular examinations, ensuring they are healthy inside and out before returning to the ocean.

The South Carolina Aquarium Sea Turtle Care Center’s goal is for each rehabilitated sea turtle to be released so that they will become reproductive members of the sea turtle population. The William A. Lohse Fund for Sea Turtle Rehabilitation hopes to aid the Center in its mission.