Waldon Blanchard

Breaux Bridge - A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, May 22, 2010, at Pellerin Funeral Home Chapel in Breaux Bridge, for Waldon J. 'Temon' Blanchard, 74, who passed away on Thursday, May 20, 2010 at his home with his loving family at his side. Interment will follow at St. Bernard Cemetery No. 2 in Breaux Bridge. Father Ed Degeyter will officiate at the funeral Mass. Scripture readings will be read by Fallon Savoy and Lacey Latiolais. The recitation of the Rosary will be conducted by Deacon Marcel 'Butch' Hebert at 9:30 a.m., Saturday. Musical selections for the service will be 'Amazing Grace', 'Ole Rugged Cross', 'Be Not Afraid', and "Wings of A Dove." Mr. Blanchard was born on June 3, 1935. He was a native and lifelong resident of Grand Bois (Parks). Waldon was a parishioner of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Parks. He was an active member, serving as an Usher for many years. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus - Parks Council No. 4927. Waldon worked very hard his entire life providing for his family. He retired after 25 years as a dragline operator and captain of a dipper dredge for J. Ray McDermott of New Orleans. After which time, he pursued a career in the oilfield industry as a hot oil operator, first for Louisiana Hot Oil and ending with G L Well Service. Temon brought a smile to the faces of everyone who knew him. He was the rock of his family. He was known as 'Buddy' to his grandchildren and great grandchildren, whom he cherished and adored. He had a special nickname for each grandchild and great grandchild. Temon enjoyed hunting. He treasured spending time with his family and will be remembered and deeply missed. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was a great cook who loved cooking for his family. He was a very caring and giving person who was always there for his family. He loved to share a joke and tell stories of his adventures of life; some of which he would get a good laugh. He leaves behind many fond memories with family and friends. Survivors include his loving wife of 55 years, Louella 'T-Lou' Broussard Blanchard and six children; Sheila Melancon and fianc Keith from Catahoula; Linda Guidry and husband Merlin from Henderson; Debbie Latiolais and husband Joseph from Parks; Marty Blanchard and wife Rhonda from Denham Springs; Kathy Savoy and husband Randy from Breaux Bridge; Millie Schexnayder and fianc Travis 'Slim' Castille from Mire; 13 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren, with the 11th on the way. He was preceded in death by his parents, Darmas and Belizare 'Marie' Frederick Blanchard and one brother, Garland 'T-Neg' Blanchard. The family requests that visiting hours be observed from 7 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. on Saturday. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Warren Degatur, Father Ed Degeyter, Hospice Compassus, especially Kim, Shelly, Amanda, and Lisa; his nurses, Mrs. Sue, and his best friend, Joe Landry. Memorial contributions can be made in his name to Hospice Compassus, 302 La Rue France, Lafayette, LA 70508. Pallbearers will be Jeremy Melancon, Nicholas Guidry, Joseph Latiolais, Mitch Blanchard, Randy Savoy, and Chase Schexnayder. Honorary pallbearers will be Marty Blanchard, Merlin Guidry, Joe Landry, and Donald Broussard. Pellerin Funeral Home of Breaux Bridge (337.332.2199) is in charge of arrangements.