Louis Philip Bart

Louis was born on July 28, 1935, in Houston, Texas to Philip Jacob Bart and Mary Pratt, who preceded him in death. He grew up in Houston, graduated from Regan High School in 1953 and was proud to be a lifelong native Houstonian and Texan. He developed his strong work ethic at an early age working side by side with his father in their furniture restoration company.

The term “natural born salesman,” describes Louis’ talent in the business world. His charisma, dedication, and quick wit provided him with the tools to work his way up and through the grocery/brokerage industry, continually mastering his skills earning him titles of distinction as his career progressed through the years building an exceptional reputation beyond reproach. He derived much joy and satisfaction in giving back to the community through various charities. The two of which he was most proud are Houston Farm and Ranch, where he served on the board of directors (1989-2020), and served as President and Chairman of the Board, and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™, where he served on the board of directors (1988-date), and as vice president and lifetime vice president.

Louis will always be remembered and thought of as Kay’s High School sweetheart and lifelong soulmate, a devoted and caring father, a tried-and-true always-available and willing-to-help dear friend, a compassionate mentor, and a man who always put others in front of himself. His kindness, generosity, and sense of humor touched everyone who knew him. His family was his everything, and he devoted his whole heart and soul into loving them. He and his family’s work with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ was a source of immense pride, as it allowed him to bring joy to children and create meaningful change in their lives. Above all, Louis leaves being a legacy of love, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. He will be remembered as a man of great integrity and warmth.

Also, preceding him in death is his daughter Brenda Kay Bart.

Louis is survived by his caring wife, Kay Epperson Bart; his son, Kenneth David Bart; his daughters, Diane Lynn Bart and Sherry Ann Calmes (husband Craig). He is also survived by his six beloved granddaughters: Shiara Cook (husband Josh), Audrey Napoleon-Swisher (husband George), Andrea Ford (husband Chris), Michelle Calmes, Jennifer Reagan (husband Garry), and Brittany Ellis (husband Brandon), as well as his cherished great-grandchildren: Gavin and Camden Cook, JW and Colby Ellis, Jaxon Porter, and Sophia Reagan.

Please join the family for visitation on Monday, January 6, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. with a Catholic service immediately following at 7:00 p.m. at Forest Park Funeral Home, 12800 Westheimer Road, Houston, Texas 77077. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 2:30 p.m., meeting at Forest Park Westheimer Funeral Home and Cemetery.

The family asks in lieu of flowers, in Louis P. Bart’s honor, a tax-deductible donation can be made to:

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Educational Fund

P.O. Box 20070

Houston Texas 77225

or

EWI of Houston (Executive Women International)

2001 Kirby, Suite 600

Houston, Texas 77019