Wilton J. Dufrene

Wilton J. Dufrene born December 13, 1936 completed his earthly journey on February 9, 2019. Judy (Bouvier) his beloved wife of 59 years was at his side. He is survived by their children Denise Dufrene Guillet (Michael), Rene Dufrene (Carolyn), Peter Dufrene (Lisa), grandchildren, Chad, Jamie, Christopher, Henry, Georgia and Adeline, brothers Andrew Dufrene (Shirley), Huey Dufrene (Phyllis) and a multitude of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Annie Dufrene, and siblings Tildon, Tilliebert (Camardelle), Surgene, Marietta (Flettrich), and Willard. Wilton was a member of the last graduating class of Westwego High School in 1956 and attended college in Lafayette. He served in the military from 1958 – 1962 and was assigned a post at Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers of Europe, (SHAPE). During his assignment at SHAPE he and his wife lived in Paris, France. After earning his professional land surveyors license he founded Dufrene Surveying and Engineering in 1967. Throughout his life he was devoted to community service and was a member of numerous organizations, among them, Harvey Canal Industrial Association (past president) now known as the Westbank Business & Industry Association, New Orleans Mardi Gras Chorus, Knights of Columbus and Saint Martha’s Choir. He was also a generous supporter of many charities including Covenant House, Boys Clubs of America, and Saint Martha’s Parish. Wilton was awarded the Order of St. Louis IX Medallion for layperson service to the Catholic Church. He was known by many as “Mr. Santa Clause” and loved reciting the Cajun Night Before Christmas. Wilton was a spiritual man who lived a full life devoted to his family, and a loyal friend who loved to Le Bon Temps Roule. He will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him. Thank you to the staff at West Jefferson Hospital, St. Joseph Hospice, his devoted caregiver Sleker Bell, and all who so graciously supported his family in his final days.
If you choose to make a memorial donation in his memory, please consider one of the following: Masses at St. Martha Catholic Church Parish ( www.stmarthaharvey.com ), Children’s Hospital of New Orleans ( www.chnola.org ) or Boys and Girls Clubs of America ( www.bgca.org ).
Services will be held on Saturday, February 16, 2019 at St. Martha’s Catholic Church, 2555 Apollo Avenue in Harvey, LA, viewing and visitation 9:30-11:30 AM, followed by a Funeral Mass, and interment at Westlawn Cemetery in Gretna.
Mothe Funeral Home is assisting the family during this time. For directions or to view and sign the online guest book, please visit: www.mothefunerals.com .