Ross Joseph Campesi Sr.

A dedicated husband, beloved father, and respected businessman, Ross Campesi, Sr., of White Castle, La., passed away peacefully on May 7, 2016, in his home in White Castle with his family by his side. He was 90 years old. He leaves behind to carry on his legacy his wife, Melissa Griffin Campesi; his children Ross Campesi, Jr. and wife Travis, Michael Campesi and wife Kathryn, Patrick Campesi and wife Lori, Grace Campesi, Jackie LaGrone Nichols, Betty LaGrone Gaspard and husband Trey, Vivian LaGrone Gauthreaux and husband Lynn; 13 grandchildren; and eight great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Marion Sandifer Campesi, and Elton LaGrone.

A life-long resident of White Castle, Ross was born on October 4, 1925. After graduating from White Castle High School in 1943, Ross began farming with his family. Ross was recognized as an outstanding sugarcane farmer in Iberville and West Baton Rouge Parishes.

In addition to his farming business, Campesi was also instrumental in the founding, formation, and ongoing successes of many companies, including the Louisiana Commerce & Trade Association (LCTA). Campesi created LCTA in 1990, in an effort to fill the need for cost-effective workers’ compensation solutions at a time when there were not many options. His philosophy led the 26-year-old company to become the largest SIF in Louisiana before it successfully converted to a casualty insurance company in January 2016. Ross demonstrated selfless commitment to the mission of these companies. He served as a trusted source of vision, inspiration, and leadership. His extraordinary contributions led to the continued success of the organizations, and he was recognized for the vital role that his institutional knowledge, inspirational guidance, and faithful service meant to these companies.

Campesi retired in 2013 at the age of 87. Beyond his contributions to the business community, Campesi was active in his community and served on various banking, healthcare, insurance, and agricultural boards. In 2007, Campesi received an award for 50 years of breeding American Quarter Horses from the American Quarter Horse Association.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Thursday, May 12 and 9:00 am to 10:30 am on Friday, May 13 at Ourso Funeral Home in Donaldsonville.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, May 13 at Ascension of Our Lord Catholic Church in Donaldsonville. Burial will follow at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Cemetery in White Castle. Arrangements are by Ourso Funeral Home, Donaldsonville.