Alfred William LaSalle

A memorial mass commemorating the life of Alfred (Al) William LaSalle will be held on Wednesday, October 17, 2018 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, New Iberia, La at 11:00 am, celebrated by his dear friend, Reverend Ed Degeyter. A rosary will be prayed at 7:30am and visitation will commence following the Rosary. Al passed away peacefully at his home on October 9, 2018. Al was born on June 29, 1928 in New Iberia, La to Edward P. and Florrie Fortier LaSalle. Beginning in his formative years, he was a devotee of daily mass, often walking to mass before going on to school at Saint Peter’s College. He is a graduate of Saint Peter’s College, lettering in multiple sports and contributed to a Football State Championship victory his senior year. He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from Springhill College in Mobile, Alabama, where he was a member of the varsity tennis team. He is a veteran of the United States Navy and following his service, returned to his home town to begin his career in Sugarcane Agriculture, following in the footsteps of several generations before him. He was a member of the American Sugarcane League, Iberia Sugar Co-Op, Jeanerette Sugar Co-Op, and the Farm Bureau. He was a longtime parishioner of Saint Peter’s Catholic Church where he served as a lector and Eucharistic Minister, cherishing his service administering communion to those hospitalized and homebound. He also was an active volunteer at Saint Francis Diner, Paul DeClouet Social Service Center, Habitat for Humanity, United Way, and “Keep Iberia Beautiful Committee,” actively leading numerous community ‘trash bashes.’ He was a longstanding member of the Olivia Lawn and Tennis Club, where close to 40-years, a group of friends gathered to play tennis, share teasing rivalry and simply enjoy one another’s company. Another great enjoyment was his lifelong passion for training and riding Tennessee Walking Horses. One of his greatest pleasures was taking his children, their friends, extended family, and later his grandchildren for rides in his custom-made sulky, harnessed to one of his horses he had patiently trained to steadfastly rack ahead amid the raucous laughter and joy of the participants. He was a sports and nature enthusiasts, enjoying traveling, hiking and most importantly, attending all of the activities of his children and grandchildren. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Harriet Minvielle LaSalle; daughter Camille L. Culbertson and her husband, Symmes Culbertson of Greenville, SC; daughter Virginia (Ginger) Barnett and her husband Michael Barnett of New Iberia, LA; grandchildren Valerie P Hajec (Brad), Angelle Patout, Nicholas Patout, Callie Culbertson, Symmes Culbertson, Jr. and Catherine Culbertson; and a great-granddaughter, Olivia Hajec. He is also survived by his sister, Katherine (Billie) L. Roane of Baton Rouge, LA, brothers-in-law, Frank Minvielle (Pat) and Edward Minvielle, along with numerous nieces, nephews and godchildren, all of whom he enjoyed a special affinity. He was particularly close to his godson and nephew Lynn Minvielle, who always agreed to help him with his numerous project requests! From an early age he had a close relationship with the Schwing family, often jokingly referring to himself as the 11th Schwing sibling. His friendship with George, Pierre and Paul continued throughout his life. Pierre was a college roommate and even in these last months, telephone exchanges brightened both of their spirits. George was his tennis doubles partner and they celebrated many regional tennis championships together. He shared his enjoyment of nature with Paul, often accompanying him on Boy Scout excursions. He always stressed that he led a very blessed life - an adoring family, strong friendships and a healthy active life. As his daughter observed, he was as amazing in death as he was in life: faithful, gentle, humble and his characteristic sharp wit, which kept smiles on our faces and diffused the levity of circumstances. In addition to his parents, Mr. LaSalle was preceded in death by his brother and sister-in-law, Edward and Virginia Roane LaSalle; his nephew and godson, David LaSalle; and brother-in-law, S. Boyd Roane. The family would like to thank Dr. Doug Sagrera and Dr. Jimmy Falterman for their long time devoted attention. Additionally, we are grateful to Hospice of Acadiana, as well as his caretakers, whom he affectionately referred to as his “Calvary,” Angel Harris, Melissa Vital, Carolyn Fontenette, Kirsten Davis and Keisha White for their patient and comforting care. Memorable contributions can be made to Catholic High School and Hospice of Acadiana.