Walter Joseph Gardere, Jr.

Walter Joseph Gardere, Jr., passed away on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at the age of 86, surrounded by his devoted family. Born in New Orleans on March 11, 1939, Walter graduated from De La Salle High School in 1957 and attended Louisiana State University. After marrying his wife, the couple moved to Metairie, raising their five children in the Airline Park Subdivision.

Walter worked in the grocery and food industry for over 50 years, starting his career at National/Canal Villere, continuing his profession at Speciality Sales and Marketing, and ending his service in the food business at Howcott Sales, Inc. He had a deep love for horse racing, a profound passion for raising snakes, and vehemently cheered on the LSU Tigers and the New Orleans Saints every chance he got.

And while his work and pastimes were important, Walter's family was his ultimate passion. He was always happiest surrounded by his big, beautiful crew. His jovial spirit and his award-winning smile shined bright to all those around him, and Walter never failed to leave a party, family gathering, or a simple visit without shouting his infamous send-off, "Keep Smiling."

He leaves behind his wife of 66 years, Melusine Gardere; his children, Lynne Comeaux (Ronnie), Beth Lambert (Richard), Keith Gardere (Colleen), Gwen Bianchini (Ray), and Kevin Gardere (Rochelle); his grandchildren, Brandy Luminais (Brad), Ryan Comeaux (Erin), Courtney Gardere, Elizabeth Connor (James), Katie Ledet (Arthur), Emily Lambert (Emerson), Kurt Gardere (Kendall), Blake Bianchini (Mallory), Brandt Bianchini (Carly), Ellen Lambert, Grace Gardere, and Gage Gardere; his great-grandchildren, Brady Luminais, Beau Luminais, Colin Comeaux, Kora Ledet, William Connor, Artie Ledet, Lyle Lambert, Catherine Connor, Adair Lambert, Andy Ledet, Brooks Bianchini and Kinsley Labat; his sister, Cheryl Felton; his brother, Edward Gardere (Kay); and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, and friends.

Walter is preceded in death by his parents, Walter, Sr. and Marie Gardere; his grandson, Greg Comeaux; and his grandson-in-law, Brad Luminais.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend funeral services on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church, 6425 West Metairie Avenue, Metairie, Louisiana, with visitation beginning at 9:30 AM and a mass to follow at 12:30 PM. A private interment will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Walter's name to Bridge House, 4150 Earhart Boulevard, New Orleans, Louisiana 70125.