Donald Joseph Fontenot Sr

Donald “JoJo” Joseph Fontenot, Sr, 77, of Port Arthur, passed away Monday, April 13, 2015 in Lake Charles, LA. Donald was born December 7, 1937 in Port Acres, TX to Walton Roque Fontenot and Lula Mae Pilcher. He graduated from Stephen F. Austin High School in 1955 and served in the U.S. Army and Merchant Marines. He was a Master Carpenter by trade and was involved with the Carpenters Local 610. During his tenure he held the positions of Secretary/Treasurer, President, and proudly served as a mentor to the Carpenters Apprentice Program. He was also a member of the International Order of Odd Fellows and believed in their dedication to improve and elevate the character of mankind by promoting principles of friendship, love and truth.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jim Fonteno and sisters, Gladys “Bugs” Walsh and Mannon “Blue Eyes” McFarland. Donald is survived by his wife of 34 years, Jan Mills Fontenot, his children, Glen Gaines and wife Elizabeth of Jackson, MS; Craig Gaines and wife Anna of Bahrain and Houston, TX; Patrick Gaines and wife Shari of Palm Harbor, FL; Michelle Fontenot of San Antonio, TX; Donald Fontenot, Jr and wife Grace of Londonderry, NH; Beau Fontenot and wife Becky of Lake Charles, LA; 12 grandchildren; brothers, Bobby Fontenot and Kermit Fonteno; sister, Louise Schenkewitz; and many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends, Thursday, April 16, 2015 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at Grammier-Oberle Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life Service will be held Friday, April 17, 2015 at 2:00pm in the Chapel of Grammier-Oberle Funeral Home, 4841 39th St, Port Arthur, TX 77642. Private interment to follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park.

Donald never met a stranger. He was liked by all and loved by many.