Leslie Peter Gatz

Les graduated from Catholic High in 1964. He graduated from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with a degree in Economics and was a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity. Les attended the LSU Banking School of the South and Commercial Lending School in Norman, Oklahoma. He retired after 45 years in banking as a commercial lending officer while working at City National Bank and then Hancock Whitney Bank. Les loved banking and developed a loyal following of his many business customers.

Growing up on Country Club Drive across from Webb Park, Les started playing golf at the age of 10 with his best friend, Richard Daviet. He loved golf and enjoyed the many golf outings and trips he took with sons Steven and Michael to the Masters, the Ryder Cup, the US Open and other tournaments.

He enjoyed traveling with Jean on their trips to London, Paris, Rome, Florence and Venice, as well as many trips throughout the U.S. Les was very active with Capital Area United Way. He served on the Board of Directors for several years, was Chairman of the Community Impact Committee, and served on the Finance Committee. He was a loyal participant in the funding programs for community agencies. As a banker he was often asked to serve on finance committees including Associated Builders and Contractors, BREC, and his neighborhood Oakridge homeowner’s association. Les was an active member of St. Thomas More Catholic Church for many years and later St. Jude Catholic Church, serving as a Eucharist Minister and on the finance committee.

Les is survived by his loving wife, Jean Barnett Gatz. They were married for 56 years. He is also survived by his three children, Steven Gatz and wife Catherine and their sons Carter and Hudson of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Michael Gatz and his wife Shamira and their two children Allison and Ahmad

of Baton Rouge, and daughter Jennifer Gatz Fowler, her husband Marston and their three children, Henry, Will and Caroline of Baton Rouge. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Charlene Gatz Reis, his sister, Laura Gatz Deavers and, brother-in-law Bob Deavers.

He will be remembered as a devoted family man who was fully present in the lives of his loved ones, especially his children and grandchildren. His love extended beyond his immediate family, touching the lives of his nieces, nephews, and all who were blessed to know him.

Les leaves behind a legacy of extraordinary kindness. He was authentic, sincere and lived a life of good will towards others. Rooted in his strong Catholic faith, he lived each day with humility, grace, and compassion, always treating others with patience and love. He had a gift for finding joy in every moment, rising above life’s challenges, and showing gentleness in all circumstances. His steady presence and the warmth he brought to others will be dearly missed. He was the embodiment of Luke 2:14: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace and good will towards man.”

The family would like to thank Dr. Brad Vincent, Dr. Kyle Champagne, and Dr. David Moll for taking such good care of Les for so long. The family would also like to thank the Audubon Home Health Care team, including the home health care professionals, palliative care team and hospice team. The family is grateful to the parishioners and clergy of St. Jude Catholic Church for their love, support, and grace.

Funeral services will be Friday, October 3 at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, 9150 Highland Road. Visitation from 9 to 11 a.m. followed by Mass at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Catholic High School.