Rene Francois Horvath

Rene’ Francois Horvath was born on January 11, 1944 in Brissard, Normandy, France. He was the son of Ferencz Horvath of Budapest, Hungary and Irene Gruge’ Horvath of Abondant, France. He was raised Catholic.

Rene’ started his apprenticeship in automotive repair at the age of sixteen in Dreux; a suburb of Paris. After graduation, at the age of eighteen, he enlisted in the French Air Force and served two years (1962-64) at St. Andre and Ramstein NATO bases, where he worked in the motor pool. By then he had become proficient in French, German and English.

While at St. Andre he met Chief Warrant Officer Leonard A. Barnes, USAF and Master Sgt. David F. Huddleston, US Army. He built close relationships with their families, and in 1965, after Barnes retired, the two sponsored Rene’s emigration to the United States. Within one week of staying with the Barnes, he’d landed a job as a mechanic at McGee Motors in Shreveport working on Volkswagen automobiles popular at the time.

Rene’ quickly proved himself at McGee making Shop Foreman within his first year. Soon, better pay called him to Watts-Pumpelly Volkswagen of Lake Charles. Shortly after moving to Lake Charles he met Tami Kieffer, of Forest Hill, who would become his wife in 1967.

In 1968, Rene’ became a machinist at the Firestone Plant in Carlyss and became a member of the machinist union, IAM. Between then and 2017 he worked for Firestone, Conoco (Phillips 66) and Southside Machine Works. In those fifty years he mentored many and his presence will be felt for some time to come. His emphasis on precision earned him accolades from Pratt and Whitney factory representatives during his time at Conoco. He also worked in Conoco’s Transportation division keeping their fleet of refinery specific vehicles in optimal shape.

Rene’ also had a love for all animals, but especially had a soft spot for cats. The family asks that instead of flowers, please donate to your favorite pet shelter. Hobo Hotel always needs help.

Rene’ was preceded in death by Tamara, his wife of fifty-eight years, his birth parents as well as his beloved step-father, Pierre Rousseau. He is survived by his son, Richard F. Horvath, Sr., his daughter-in-law, Patricia Horvath as well his grandson, Richard F. Horvath, Jr.

The family welcomes the public for a time of visitation on Friday, January 9, 2026 from 5pm until 8pm. Visitation will resume Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 10am until time of funeral service at 11:00 a.m. officiated by Bro. Larry Farris. Burial will follow in Butter Cemetery, Butter Cemetery Rd, Forest Hill, LA 71430.