Gerald W. Middleton

Gerald Middleton died peacefully in his sleep during the early morning hours Monday, Nov. 30, 2009. He was 87 and had a long and full life. He worked for Exxon and retired with 40 years of service. He enjoyed traveling around the country with his Airstream trailer. He was a World War II veteran and received the Bronze Star among other military commendations. He was an LSU graduate, having been president of Sigma Chi fraternity and Interfraternity Council. He had a strong faith and was a captain emeritus at the Manresa Retreat House, Convent. An avid LSU fan, he retained season tickets for most of his life. He loved people and will be missed by many friends left behind, in addition to his family. Preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Catherine Brousseau Middleton; and parents, James Highlander Middleton and Gertrude Fitzgerald Middleton. He is survived by his loving children and their spouses, Gerald W. Jr. and Katherine Middleton, James Ogden II and Sylvia Middleton, Michelle Middleton Hudson and James C. Hudson, Molly Middleton, Laura Middleton Trachtenberg and Michael Trachtenberg; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including Carmen, J. Christopher and Nicholas Hudson, Sage and Gerald W. III "Jerry" Middleton, Joseph "Joey" Trachtenberg, Kelli Campbell and Gideon Hudson. He will be missed by all. Visitation at Rabenhorst Funeral Home, 825 Government St., on Thursday, Dec. 3, was from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4, at St. Jude Catholic Church, 9150 Highland Road, with additional visitation from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to the Alzheimer's Association, St. Vincent de Paul or the charity of your choice.