Earline M. Cantrell passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, March 7, 2017 at the age of 69. Loving mother of Christopher J. Cantrell (Stephanie). Daughter of the late William B. and Odile Ruiz Cantrell. Sister of Patricia Melerine, Linda Lobre and the late William B. Cantrell Jr., Emile Cantrell, Norman Cantrell, Leon Cantrell, Bobby Cantrell, Bernice Hanzo, Mary Alice Matlock, Elvia Schubert, Claire Rita Estopinal, Lorraine Darce, Ethel Gagliano and Joan Fraychineaud. Proud grandmother of Caleb Cantrell and Carter Cantrell. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Earline was born on September 1, 1947 in New Orleans, LA and was the youngest of 15 siblings. She raised her only son with the help of her family and always put family before everything. Earline instilled in Chris the core value that family always comes first. Her two grandsons were the light of her life. She will be forever remembered and deeply missed by her family and friends. Relatives and friends attended a visitation held at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home in Chalmette, LA on Friday, March 10, 2017. A funeral mass followed. She was be laid to rest in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com.

Earl Joseph Balser passed away at 5:05a.m. on Wednesday, March 15, 2017 in Sulphur, Louisiana at the age of 93. He was the child of the late Edward Balser and Louise Y. Balser; and had 8 siblings. He joined the military on February 11, 1943 and served in the Air Force for 20 years. During WWII while stationed in Scotland he met and married his wife, MaryLynch on October 1, 1945 and came to New Orleans, LA. Later, he was transferred to San Antonio, TX, where their daughter was born. After his retirement he began a career as a civilian employee for the U.S. Navy. After his second retirement, Earl did various volunteer work, including an advocate for a local nursing home and helping at the N.O. Veterans Hospital, he was an active member of the AARP chapter and VFW in St. Bernard Parish. Following the death of his wife and Hurricane Katrina, he moved to Westlake and later Sulphur, LA. He had a unique sense of humor and made many long lasting friendships wherever he resided. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary; 7 brothers, 1 sister and six sisters-in-law. Earl leaves behind his daughter, Carolyn Ripoll; son-in-law, Terry Ripoll; granddaughter, Cherie Benoit (Sean); grandsons, Steven Ripoll (Nicole) and David Ripoll (Tracy); 5 great grandchildren, Luke and Zachary Benoit, Ava Ripoll and Matthew and Mason Ripoll, numerous relatives in Louisiana and Scotland and 1sister-in-law. A memorial service was held Tuesday, March 21, 2017 at Hixson Funeral Home of Westlake. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, March 24, 2017 at 12 p.m. at St. Bernard Cemetery in Chalmette, Louisiana. Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.hixsonfuneralhomes.com.

Christina Marie Billiot, a native of Chalmette, LA and resident of Houston, TX, passed away unexpectedly on February 21, 2017 at the age of 40. Bright and ambitious from the start, she landed her first job at 15, and was consistently promoted in every position she held. Ultimately, she managed the workforce of Fortune 500 companies in both New Orleans and Houston. She won the respect and praises of hundreds of corporate peers throughout her career in staffing and labor management. Through her professional and her personal life, Christina made friends wherever she went. She lived life to the fullest and inspired others to do the same. She loved the outdoors, fitness, and beach vacations. Hosting countless dinners and gatherings so family and friends could get together to share in laughter, she was fun and full of zest for life. With a caring heart and beautiful smile, she was truly a remarkable woman who brought joy to all with her humor and wit. Christina adored her children and spent time with her family and friends, as often as possible. Christina was preceded in death by her grandfather Stanley Billiot Sr., and her grandmother, Lorraine Mackles Wuertz whom she dearly loved. She is survived by her parents Yvonne “Sue” Updegraff, Carlos “Papa” Lind, Jr. and Stanley Billiot, Jr.; her grandparents Carlos Sr. and Donna Lind; grandmother Pauline Billiot; sister Becky Billiot; daughters, Paris Dominique Bordelon and Mila Grace Pena; grandchildren Mileena and Michael Abarca, Jr.; godchildren Brooklyn Eagan and Victoria Wilson as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial gathering to be held at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA on Saturday, March 25, 2017 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., followed by a memorial service in Christina’s memory beginning at 12 p.m. Burial will be private. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com.

Raymond Anthony Ficaro, Sr., was born December 22, 1935 and passed away surrounded by his loving family on Saturday March 18, 2017 at the age of 81. He was the beloved husband of 61 years to Gail J. Ficaro. He was a loving and caring father to Raymond A. Ficaro, Jr. (Suzette), Ricky Ficaro and Kathleen Tortorich. Son of the late Jennie L. Ficaro and late Frank Ficaro. Loving and Cherished grandfather to 9 Grand Children who absolutely adored him. Also survived and fondly remembered by his 9 Great Grand Children. Ficaro also had many nieces, nephews, cousins and many dear friends. He was veteran in the US Navy and began his career with RTA 40 years. He was a native of New Orleans Louisiana and was a lifelong resident of St. Bernard Parish until Hurricane Katrina then relocated to Shreveport, Louisiana until 3 weeks ago when he moved back to Slidell, Louisiana to be with his family. Ficaro was also a member of the Jerusalem Temple Masonic Lodge # 4. He loved fishing, and watching boxing in his pass time. Relatives and friends attended a visitation held at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA on Wednesday, March 22, 2017 from 9 a.m. 11 a.m. A Masonic Service began afterward. He was laid to rest in St. Patrick No.1 Cemetery, New Orleans, LA. To view and sign the Family Guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com

Alta Mae Gossett Galyean passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, March 12, 2017 at the age of 95. Beloved wife of the late Travis Lee Galyean. Loving mother of Iris Galyean Schmid (the late William) of Gulfport, MS, Gloria Galyean Elfert (Whittney) of Hammond, LA and Mary Galyean Robertson (William) of Hammond, LA. Daughter of the late Smith B. Gossett and Elizabeth Hunter Gossett. Sister of the late Ira S. Gossett and Gracie D. “Baby Gracie” Gossett. Proud grandmother of 14 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. Also survived by three nieces and one late nephew. Alta was born on June 3, 1921 in Morehead, Kansas and was a longtime resident of St. Bernard Parish. In 2005 she moved to Natchez, MS and was currently residing in Hammond, LA. She was a charter member of Poydras Baptist Church and a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Chalmette. Alta will be forever remembered and deeply missed by her family and friends. Special thanks to the nurses and staff of New Century Hospice, Tracie Robinson, Chris Chavers, Jim Stanley and Sheika Hudson for their loving care and support. Relatives and friends attended a visitation and funeral service held at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home in Chalmette, LA on Saturday, March 18, 2017. Reverend Chris Chavers officiated. She was laid to rest in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens. To view and sign the family guestbook and directions, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com.

Sky Leann Labat passed away peacefully on Monday, March 13, 2017, at 11:36 p.m., at her home in Violet, Louisiana, at the age of 23, after a long and courageous battle with cancer (Neuroblastoma). Sky had a loving, caring, most inspirational soul and was the beloved daughter of Theresa Peltier, Michael Labat Sr. and Jody Honold Sr. Loving sister of Michael Labat, Jr. (Laura) and Allen Labat  Emma). The best Aunt in the world to Michael Labat III, Trey “Trey Bae” Labat and Allen Jr. “A.J.” Labat, Stepsister of Jody Honold Jr. (Kelly) and Josh Honold (Courtney) and Step Aunt to Aryelle, Genesis, Jeager, Layla, Audrey, and Jax Honold and Adaline and Glen Palmisano. Most Loving granddaughter of Robert Sr, and Sandra Pelter, and Norman and Joy Labat. Niece of Joyce Peltier, Tracy Gallardo, Robert Peltier (Sheryl) and Lori Peltier. Sky was a successful Cosmetologist and loved what she did and loved her clients. Sky was also, the kindness most loving daughter, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, cousin friend and just a wonderful person. She will be greatly missed by so many that knew her and loved her. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting monetary donations to help with funeral expenses. Relatives and friends of the family attended a visitation and mass of Christian burial at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Violet, LA., on Saturday, March 18, 2017. It was Sky’s wish to be cremated.

Denise Tanya Richhart Manger passed away on Thursday, March 16, 2017 at the age of 55. She was the cherished wife of 32 years to Daniel Manger. Loving mother of Michael A. Lena Jr. (Dionne), Angilina Lena and Joseph Sambola (Brandi). Daughter of the late Stanley Richhart and Elaine Schexnayder. Sister of the late Judy Sambola. Proud grandmother of Kaitlyn, Addisyn, Madelyn, Brianna, Olivia, William, Victoria and Cecelia. She is also survived and fondly remembered by many relatives, cousins and dear friends. Denise was born in New Orleans, LA and was a longtime resident of St. Bernard Parish. She was well loved and will be forever remembered as a loving and loyal wife, mother, grandmother, sister and a friend of many, who lovingly spoiled her grandkids and treasured her family and friends. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation to be held at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA on Friday, March 24, 2017 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., followed by a celebration of her life beginning at 1 p.m. She will be laid to rest in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com.

Edward W. Riedl, Sr., passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, March 18, 2017 while surrounded by his loving family at the age of 96. He was the beloved husband of 67 years to the late Alicemae Alberts Riedl. Loving father of Karen Riedl Gaudet (James), Candace Riedl Lowe (Claude), Edward W. Riedl, Jr. (Joyce), Gregory M. Riedl (Julie). Son of the late Louis Riedl and Mary Bersuder Riedl. Brother of Irma Moeller and Edna Fournet and the late Louis Riedl, Bill Riedl, Joseph Riedl, Albert Riedl, Ernie Riedl, May Johnson, Alma Diggs and Elsie Vamprine. Proud grandfather of Michelle Johnson (Don), Cherie Plunkett (Tim), Stephanie Grueninger (Troy), Amanda Riedl, Allyson Riedl, Brant Cacamo (Jody), Aimee Lacoume (Sam), Claude Lowe, Jr., Timothy Lowe (Christy) and David Lowe. He is also survived and fondly remembered by his 21 great-grandchildren along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. Mr. Riedl was a veteran of World War II from 1942 – 1945, where he served his country as an Army Sargent in the 96th Infantry Division, 921st Field Artillery Battalion. He fought in two major invasions, the Battle of Leyte and the Battle of Okinawa. Upon Mr. Riedl’s return from the war, he and his wife Alicemae went on to raise a family of four beautiful children and began his career with the Maloney family that spanned over 50 years. Special thanks to his caregivers Fran Vance, Maria Adcock, Lain Floyd as well as Passages Hospice. The family would also like to thank two very special people, Bobby and Lynn Cure. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend a visitation at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home, 701 W. Virtue St. Chalmette, LA on Friday, March 24, 2017, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m., followed by a funeral mass in Edward’s memory beginning at 3 p.m. He will be laid to rest with his beloved wife in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com.

Pamela Ann Morgan Traina, “Glitter Girl” passed away on March 13, 2017 in Slidell, LA at the age of 60. Born November 19, 1956 in New Orleans, Louisiana to Harry and Mae Morgan. Pamela always tried to do the best she could for everyone. Her life was not perfect, and she encountered many humps in the road, but was always dressed for every occasion. She loved shopping for a cute pair of heels, crafting and creating elaborate floral arrangements. She will be fondly remembered for the fun times out on the water, whether she was sun tanning on the beach or screaming “Here fishy fishy” trying to catch her a big redfish. Pamela will be forever remembered for her enthusiasm and bubbly personality. Her spirit is carried on by her mother Mae Morgan, sister Tammy Morgan (Alice Avery), brother Keith Morgan (Patricia Moran), half-sister Marsha Morgan, four sons Dustin Gisclair (Christie Bene), Brad Boudreaux, Travis Troxclair (Jessica Troxclair) and Nicholas Troxclair, seven grandchildren and one great-grandson. A celebration of her life was held at The Abbey Rose in Violet, Louisiana, on Wednesday, March 22, 2017. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation in memory of Pamela to: www.paypal.me/Pamtraina. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com.

Ricky Soniatdufossat Sr. passed away on Thursday, March 23, 2017 at the age of 63. Beloved husband of Sherry Soniatdufossat for 40 years. Loving father of Ricky Soniatdufossat Jr. (Amanda) and the late Bambi Gonzales. Son of the late Henry and Helen Joachim Soniatdufossat. Brother of Cheryl Ciccotti and Carol Soniat. Proud grandfather of Bella Drago, Ethan Gonzales and Olivia Soniatdufossat. Also, survived by nieces and nephews. Ricky was born on May 1, 1953 in New Orleans, LA. He was a longtime resident of St. Bernard Parish and a current resident of Picayune, MS. Ricky was a dedicated employee of Port Ship Services for the past eight years. He loved his job and driving the Captains. Ricky enjoyed watching ships on the river and the New Orleans Saints. He will be forever remembered and deeply missed by his family and friends. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation to be held at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA on Friday, March 31, 2017 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Interment will be private. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com.

Philip J. Schwab, Jr. passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 21, 2017 at the age of 89. Philip is survived by his loving wife of 65 years Dornice Gab Schwab; five children; David Schwab (Judy), Steven Schwab (Rita), Cynthia S. Marino (Bernard), Cheryl S. Mayer (Herb), and Patricia S. Stanley (Rick); his grandchildren: Jay, Christine, Eliza, Olivia, Jasmine, Philip, Spencer, Gabrielle, Hannah, Everett, Stephanie, Helena, Ethan, Annaliese: and three great-grandchildren. He was the son of the late Pearl Buras Schwab and Philip J. Schwab, Sr. He is also survived by his sister, Johanna S. Hurley, numerous nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends. Philip was a native of New Orleans, LA, a longtime resident of St. Bernard Parish and moved to Metairie in later years. Prior to Katrina, he was an active member of Prince of Peace Catholic Church where he served as Eucharistic Minister and usher. He was also a member of the Princemen Catholic Men’s club where he served as head chef of the Princemen Cooking Committee. He also lead many family activities at Prince of Peace Church such as the Summer Softball League and the Youth Kite Flying Contest. Philip was the recipient of the Order of the St. Louis Medallion for his service to Prince of Peace Catholic Church. The family would like to give special thanks to Viola, Racquel, and Monica who cared for Philip these past several months. Philip was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who enjoyed spending time with his family, watching football, and cooking. Philip lived a wonderful life and was greatly loved. Relatives and friends attended a visitation held at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA on Tuesday, March 28, 2017. A Funeral Mass followed afterward. He will be laid to rest with military honors in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to the Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans, 1000 Howard Ave, Suite 200, New Orleans, LA 70113 or at www.ccano.org. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com

Mary Ellen Oalmann passed away on March 21, 2017 at the age of 86. Beloved wife of the late Harold “Harry” J. Oalmann. Loving mother of Linda Wilkes of Pomona Park, FL; Janice Edmondson of Marianna FL; Laurie Riley (Jimmy) of Lake City, FL; and the late Ronnie G. Parker. Daughter of the late Roland and Mary Lockard. Proud grandmother of Christy, Johnny, April, Shiri, Rex, Bryanna, Delaine and the late Ronnie R. and Ronnie S. Also survived by 19 great-grandchildren and three greatgreat-grandchildren. Preceded in death by six sisters and two brothers. Mary was born on November 7, 1930 in Dothan, AL. She was a longtime resident of St. Bernard Parish and a current resident of Lake City, FL. Mary will be forever remembered and deeply missed by her family and friends. Funeral services were held at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home in Chalmette, LA on Monday, March 27, 2017. She was laid to rest in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com.

Tamara I. Lee entered in eternal rest on Monday, March 13, 2017 at age the age of 36. A Devoted Professional at the University Medical Center. Daughter of Demetries M. Lee-Cooper and Huey J. (Jacqueline) Lee Jr. and Stepdaughter of Johnnie Cooper Jr. Beloved children Tahmaj T. Taylor, Tyrionne T. and Tamia T. Lee. Siblings Tiranika (Chad) Lee and Trumaine (Dezarae) Lee Sr. Grandmother Gloria (Willie) Davis. Uncles Earl Sr., Lawrence, Jimmy(Tamesha) and Corey Sylvester. Kevin, Lester(Sabrina), and Randy (Marilou) Lee. Aunts Carolyn Sylvester, Rhonda (Lawrence) Baquet, Vannessa Batiste, Celeste Harrison. She is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends. Bestie Latanya Montgomery. Relatives, friends of the family, UMC, Rejuvenating Concepts, Bernhart MRC Construction Company attended the homegoing celebration at Greater South Shore Full Gospel Church, 7408 West Judge Perez Dr., Chalmette, LA on Saturday, March 25, 2017. Interment followed at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Pastor Allen G. Duhon officiated.

Huey Pierce Grey passed away on Sunday, March 26, 2017 at his residence in Ponchatoula, LA, at the age of 80. He was born on Wednesday, September 2, 1936 in New Orleans, LA to the late Clara Stephens Grey and Thomas Michael Grey Sr. He was a resident of Chalmette, LA until August 2005 and has resided in Ponchatoula, LA since Hurricane Katrina. Huey retired from Gordons Transportation and was a member of the Teamsters Union Local #270. He worked in the Louisiana movie industry in transportation and he also worked as a delivery driver for Mumphrey’s Pharmacy in Chalmette, LA. Huey was a devoted and dedicated family man. He would do anything for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Huey is survived by his beloved daughters, Joanne Grey Virga, Lynda Grey Byrd and her husband, Kenny, and Sheila Grey, and his loving son, Thomas Michael Grey and his wife, Tammy; one sister, Dorothy Traina, and six adoring grandchildren, Tracey Hebron, Jennifer Virga, Gina Cooper (Brett), Dana Forsyth (Matt), Kenny Byrd, Jr. (Summer), and Kevin Byrd (Ally); and nine great-grandchildren, Logan, Owen, Hayden, Hailee, Dylan, Addison, Kinlee, Brynna, and Lex. Also, survived by many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jeanelle S. Grey; parents, Clara Stephens Grey and Thomas Michael Grey, Sr.; two sisters, Evelyn Grelle and Geraldine Geeck; and three brothers, Thomas M Grey, Jr., John “Jack” Grey, and Arthur “Red” Grey. Relatives and friends attend a visitation and the funeral ceremony in the chapel of Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home in Ponchatoula, Louisiana, on Wednesday, March 29, 2017. Interment followed in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens in Chalmette, LA. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.harrymckneely.com.

Sister Mary Lester deBlanc died the early morning of March 12, 2017 at St. Mary of the Pines in Chatawa, Mississippi. Marie Louise deBlanc was the younger of two daughters born to Alma (Fuhr) and Lester P. deBlanc. She was born and grew up in New Orleans, in the Redemptorist Parish. She and her older sister, Jeanne, were taught from the first through the twelfth grade there by the School Sisters of Notre Dame. On graduating from high school, Marie Louise entered the School Sisters of Notre Dame in St. Louis. There she prepared spiritually and professionally to become a religious and a teacher. She was received into the congregation and given the name, Mary Lester. On professing her vows, her early teaching ministry was in Missouri and California and in Marrero, La. During most of her half-century of classroom teaching, Sister Lester taught the language arts to the junior high school youth at Our Lady of Prompt Succor School in Chalmette, Louisiana. During five years she also served as principal there. From her retirement from the classroom in 2000 until Hurricane Katrina, Sister Lester continued working with Chalmette youth as receptionist for Archbishop Hannan High School. On returning to Chalmette after Katrina, Sister Lester was invited to bring her organizational skills and her humor to lead a program for the Council on Aging. She continued in this ministry until she retired to St. Mary of the Pines in 2013. Sister Lester was an active member of the community until a sudden illness severely limited her physical activity. Sister Lester was preceded in death by her parents and her sister. Rev. Rodney Bourg of the Archdiocese of New Orleans was the celebrant at a eucharistic celebration on Wednesday, March 15, 2017 with Rev. Suresh Thirmalareddy, pastor of St. Teresa Parish, as the con-celebrant. Pallbearers were from the Charles R. Brill Council of the Knights of Columbus. She was laid to rest in Chatawa Cemetery.

Joseph B. Collins passed away on Friday, March 24, 2017 at the age of 89. Beloved husband of the late Lillian R. Collins. Devoted companion of Eugenie “Nina” Poirrier for 35 years. Loving father of Jacquelyn Molero (Jay), Donald Collins (Faye), Joanna Collins (Dave), Eugene Poirrier (Mary Beth), Sidney Poirrier (Carol) and the late Joseph B. Collins II (Leslie) and the late Raymond Poirrier Jr. (the late Monina). Son of the late Manuel and Valerie Bourg Collins. Proud grandfather of 19 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren and five great-great\-grandchildren. Preceded in death by his brothers and sisters. Joseph was a United States Army Veteran and proudly served in World War II. He was a member of the VFW – Chalmette Post for many years. He loved music and practical jokes but he especially enjoyed spending time with family. Joseph will be forever remembered and deeply missed by his family and friends. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation to be held at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA on Monday, April 3, 2017 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. A Funeral Mass will begin at 12:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church, 2320 Paris Rd., Chalmette, LA. He will be laid to rest with military honors in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com

Darleen Theresa Clements passed away on Saturday, March 25, 2017, at Ochsner Foundation Hospital, at the age of 47. She was born in New Orleans, Louisiana to Michael Dalon and Joan Nata, and was a lifelong resident of Violet, LA. Darleen enjoyed painting with Tuesday’s Taste of Paint Crew. She was the devoted wife of Dwayne Clements for 26 years and the loving mother of Chelsea D. Clements and Cassie J. Clements. Sister of Malissa Nettleton (Bryan) Nichole Dalon and Tammy Dalon. She is also survived by 10 nieces and nephews. The family will hold a celebration of her life at a later time.

Ben Brupbacher died peacefully at his home on Saturday, March 26, 2017 at the age of 93. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Lois Weil Brupbacher, their four children, Mary Antonini (Larry), Leslie Kramer (Bill), Chris Brupbacher (Neci) and Ellen Addison (Jay). Grandfather to Jonathan Kramer (Aimee), Katie Marcel (Jay), Benjamin Kramer, Christopher & Jacob Brupbacher. Great-grandfather to Clark, Lila and Coen Kramer and Dylan Marcel. He is also survived by his sister Elsie Martinez and Daniel J. Brupbacher (Alice) his brother. He was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin and Geraldine Brupbacher, sister Helen Callaghan (Bill), his grandsons Cyrus L. Barker and Justin Addison. An engineering prodigy, Ben graduated valedictorian from Warren Easton Senior High and received a full scholarship to Tulane University where he graduated first in his class in Mechanical Engineering. He joined the Seabees as a Lieutenant and served in Okinawa during World War II. After the war, he joined the Trane Co. as a sales engineer, eventually leaving Trane for James F. O’Neil in 1950 where he was voted Who’s Who in Orleans Industries for his work. In 1956, he left James F. O’Neil to start his own company, Albach Co., with his partner, Louis Alfonso. Through his tireless work and success, he expanded Albach to include Cembell Industries in Chalmette, La. He enjoyed many years taking customers and family fishing on his boat the Miss Happ in Breton Sound. An avid hunter and fisherman, his passion and expertise led him to aid in forming the CCA of Louisiana in order to conserve marine life and the coastal environment. While raising their four children, Ben and Lois became avid world travelers, frequenting the Yucatan Peninsula, where the family explored Mayan ruins and made lifelong friends. In his early life, he spent countless hours in City Park, fishing in the lagoons and paddling in Bayou St. John. His love of the outdoors led him to look for rural property. In 1974, he bought his first piece of land in Mississippi. What started as a weekend getaway for the family became an outlet for his restless work ethic; he built houses, grew crops, took steps to conserve the land and made the property self-sustaining. He became a farmer, tennis player, woodsman and conservationist. His farm has not only served as a treasure for family and friends, but also became a temporary home for many after Katrina. In the aftermath of the storm, Cembell moved to Laplace and grew incrementally. Today, with over 300 employees, Cembell Industries is one of the premier fabricators of process equipment in North America. Up until December 2016, Ben was still working every day, fishing, and traveling to the farm on weekends. His legacy of successful entrepreneurship and his strong work ethic will live on through his children and grandchildren as he moves on to the cosmos to join his grandsons Cyrus and Justin. The family would like to give special thanks to Dr. Frank Wilklow and everyone at Gifted Health Care especially Tina Bacchus, Iana Carter and Gina Cardoza. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend a celebration of life at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd., (In Metairie Cemetery) on Friday, March 31, 2017 at 1 p.m. Visitation will begin at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow in Metairie Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer donations to Friends of City Park, Land Trust for Louisiana and/or CCA Louisiana. To view and sign the funeral guestbook, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com.

Mary Jurado Bourquard passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 25, 2017 at the age of 86. She was the cherished wife of 47 years to the late Richard “Buddy” Bourquard Sr. Loving mother of Michael J. Bourquard (Belinda), Steven J. Bourquard Sr. (Donna), Judy B. Walker (Brad) and the late Richard C. Bourquard Jr. Daughter of the late Michael and Carrie Jurado. Sister of Sylvia Peralta, Clarence Jurado and the late Lawrence Jurado, Alfred Jurado, Benjamin Jurado and Cecile Martinez. Proud grandmother of Blake Bourquard (Amanda), Paige Bourquard, Steven Bourquard Jr. (Kerri Lynn), Brooke Delaney (Rhett), Richmond Walker, Michael Walker (Jason), Jennifer Pasquale (Frank), Tracy Marshall, Justin Wichterich, Kelly Bourquard, Michelle Bourquard and the late Gregory Bourquard. She is also survived and fondly remembered by many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends and especially her longtime companion Ray Manuel. Mary was born in New Orleans, LA and was a longtime resident of St. Bernard Parish. She was well loved and will be forever remembered as a loving and loyal wife, mother, grandmother and sister, who loved her sewing and treasured her family. Relatives and friends attend a visitation held at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA on Friday, March 31, 2017, followed by a funeral mass in Mary’s memory. Mary was laid to rest with her beloved husband in a private ceremony. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com.

Cornelia P. Robertson passed away peacefully on March 29, 2017 at the age of 85. She is preceded in death by her first husband John Serpas, Sr. and second husband Charles O.Robertson. She was the daughter of the late Merrill Perez, Sr. and Manuela Ruiz Perez. She was the mother of Charlene Reynolds (Lenny), Wanda Robertson, Suzanne Bernard (Boogie),John Serpas, Jr. (Liz), Kerry Robertson (Mary), Alfred Boo Ramirez, and the late Lori Robertson Laurente. She was the sister of Adele Tudy Nunez (Tookie), Merrill Perez (Katie), Joyce Henderson (Alfred), and Eugene Perez (Clover). She has 15 grandchildren and 37 great-grandchildren. She is retired from the St. Bernard Parish School Board and will be truly missed. Many thanks to the staff of Ferncrest Manor and Passages Hospice. Visitation and a mass was held on April 3, 2017 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 2621 Colonial Blvd., Violet LA. Burial at St. Bernard Catholic Cemetery, 2805 Bayou Road, St. Bernard, LA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.