Alfred Joseph Ricard

"I have not departed from the commands of His lips. I have treasured the words of his mouth more than my daily bread." Job 23:12. Alfred Joseph Ricard, a native of Pointe Coupee, was born March 21, 1920, to Grover Alfred Ricard and Regina Michel Ricard. Alfred passed away at his home in Baton Rougeon March 9, 2007, at the age of 86. He was the first of five children. He was preceded in death by his parents; best friend and brother, Hilary; and sisters, Hazel and Verna. He spent the first part of his career as a farmer, the middle part as a carpenter and member of Local 1098, and the last part as a caretaker of Magnolia Mound Plantation, where he returned to his first love, farming. He formed lifelong friendships with the staff, taking care of the crop garden and lovingly teaching the area school children about the planting and care of crops native to Louisianafarming and plantations. He is survived by his wife, Trina Chustz Ricard; daughter, Karen Ricard; sons, Mark and Jude Ricard; and sister, Gloria. He was a member of St. Agnes Catholic Church parish, where he served as an usher for many years. Funeral services at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 749 East Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70802, (225) 383-4127 on Wednesday, March 14. Visiting will be from 9 a.m.to 10:30 a.m.; the Rosary will be led at 10 a.m.by Mrs. Delores Chustz; and Mass will begin at 10:30 a.m., with Monsignor Robert Bergreen, celebrant. Pallbearers will be Mark Ricard, Jude Ricard, Patrick Ricard, Horace Fuselier, Ronald Fuselier and Claude Whitfield. Honorary pallbearers are Errol Ricard, Roger Chustz, Daniel Bajoie and Bruce Ricuard. Funeral arrangements through Rabenhorst Funeral Home, 825 Government St., (225) 383-6831.