Kenneth Patrick Fontenot

New Iberia – A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church at 2:00 pm Tuesday, January 23, 2024, for Kenneth Patrick “Poppy” Fontenot, 76, who passed away on Sunday, January 14, 2024.

Private burial will be at a later date.

Rev. Garrett Savoie will be the Celebrant.

Visitation will be at Pellerin Funeral Home on Tuesday from 9:30 am until 1:30 pm.

A rosary, led by the Men’s Rosary Group, will be prayed at 11:00 am Tuesday.

Born on March 17, 1947, in Jackson, Missouri, Kenneth's journey through life was filled with passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to his family, career, and community.

Kenneth's educational journey began at Opelousas High School, where he played baseball and football. After graduating from high school, he pursued his academic aspirations at USL, then transferred to McNeese State University, where he proudly obtained a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. During his time at McNeese, he also found time to indulge in his love for sports by playing intramural basketball.

With an unwavering sense of duty and patriotism in his heart, Kenneth dedicated a significant portion of his life to serving in the United States Navy from 1971 to 1977. Rising to the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade (LTJG), he undertook various roles and responsibilities during his service. Kenneth served as a Search and Rescue Pilot, Fire/Crash Division Officer, Nuclear/Chemical Disaster Control Officer, and JAG assistant. For his commendable service to the nation, he was honored with the National Defense Service Medal.

Kenneth embarked on a remarkable career path that showcased both his ingenuity and determination. Known as “Kenny” by his brothers and family, he started working for his father at the tender age of 7, learning to work with his hands, doing carpentry, woodworking and upholstery.  He learned to drive at 12 years old, to help with errands and deliveries. He started his professional journey as a Roustabout for Tidex Marine Corporation in Morgan City, Louisiana. He then worked as a Field Engineer for Superior Oil Company in Houston, Texas but soon realized he needed to complete his military obligations before following this pursuit further. He ultimately retired as a Petroleum Engineer. His vast knowledge and expertise made him an invaluable asset in the oil exploration industry—a testament to his dedication and commitment in every endeavor he undertook.

Beyond his professional achievements, Kenneth was a man of great faith and was a cherished member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church. He actively participated in the community as a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Tea Party, staunchly advocating for his beliefs and engaging in civic affairs.

Outside of work and community involvement, Kenneth found solace and joy pursuing his hobbies and interests. An avid golfer, hunter, and fisherman, he shared many priceless moments with his father, brothers and his children enjoying these outdoor activities. He cherished their time spent at their camp in Grand Isle, where they would fish in the bay, wade waist deep into the Gulf of Mexico, and crab right off of the beach. They also had bonfires and fireworks for the fourth of July. Kenny’s father caught a 100 pound flounder that is proudly displayed on the wall. He also relished time spent on the hunting lease in St. Mary Parish that he shared with his brothers, Jimmy and Donald, creating memories that will forever be treasured.

Mr. Fontenot is survived by his loving wife, Vicky Norris Fontenot; four children, Cherie Uerkvitz (Ryan), Desiree DeRouen (Shane), Alyce Coor (Daniel), and Beau Fontenot; brothers, Jimmy Fontenot (Judy), and Donald Fontenot (Jane); and grandchildren, who affectionately called him “Poppy,” Caleb Joseph DeRouen, Aidan Eric Fabius DeRouen, Jaime F. Garcia III, McKane Conor Scott, Kenneth Braxton Coor, Cody John Coor, Talmadge Ryan Uerkvitz, Asher Cannon Uerkvitz, and Bridger Rockwell Uerkvitz.

He was preceded in death by his parents, F.J. “Fabus” and Vivian Lenore Wilcox Fontenot; grandmother, Alice Wilcox; uncles, Edward Wilcox, Clarence Fontenot (Della), Ernest Fuselier, and Charles Wilcox; aunt, Alice Wilcox; and his parents-in-law, Donald J. and Rita Lou LeBlanc Norris.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to the highly sought after staff of UNI of Texas; MD Anderson; Dr. Pilie, Urology Oncology (Mayo Clinic); Dr. Mhadghut, Hemotology Oncology (Ochsner Health Lafayette); Dr. Kitakule (Pulmonology); Dr. Cousin (Family Medical Clinic); Dr. Wiltz (TAC); the hardworking doctors and nursing staff of IMC ER department; the kickass nursing staff of Med/Surgery department.; their dedicated fearless leader, Emily, RN; and CC: Melissa, RN and Amber, RN.  Also, special thanks to Darilyn (Dietary) who always had a beautiful smile; Gwen (HSK), the best housekeeper ever; Victoria “Tori” RN; Dominique “Dom” LPN; Melissa CNA; Contessa RN; Denetra “Dee” RN; Shatoya “Toya” RN; Jontae CNA; Judy RN; Kelsey RN; Lisa CNA; Tera RN; Ladasha CNA; Namosha CNA; Andreanna RN; Felicia “Fee” LPN; and Danielle RN. (If we have forgotten your name, please forgive us; you are definitely not forgotten in our hearts!); and to Danielle and staff of Hope Hospice; and Allyson and staff of Heart of Hospice, for all of your hard work and dedication. You all have a spot in heaven! God Bless you all.

Kenneth leaves behind a legacy that will forever inspire and touch the lives of those who knew him. May he rest in peace.

Pellerin Funeral Home, 502 Jefferson Terrace Blvd, New Iberia, LA 70560 (337-365-3331).