Gaston Henry Barkemeyer, Jr.

He was a native of New Orleans who attended St. Mary of the Angels Elementary and Nicholls High schools. He was a proud World War II veteran, where he served in the U.S. Navy in the Pacific theater as a Seaman First Class. At age 18, he served in the Battle of Okinawa as crew member on Higgins landing crafts shuttling Marines and supplies ashore for 82 days of intense battle. He received the Asiatic Pacific Area, Philippine Liberation, and Victory Ribbons for his service.

He was a loyal employee of New Orleans Public Service Incorporated for 42 years, working as an overhead linesman in electric distribution serving as a supervisor. He was a member of the Jolly Jacks social club, fan of any team representing LSU or the USA, and iconic “PawPaw” riding his bike around Metairie, Lakeview and City Park in retirement.

He was a man of great Catholic faith and devotion to Blessed Mother Mary.

He was predeceased by his loving wife of 43 years, Mary Ellen Haun Barkemeyer; parents, Gaston and Catherine Barkemeyer; and his siblings, Jacob Barkemeyer, Jane Geauthreaux, and Catherine Thom.

He was the loving father to Judith Pfeffer (Bradley), Glenn Barkemeyer, and Brian Barkemeyer (Michelle); proud grandfather to Tammie Lane (Jason), Elise Barkemeyer, Amanda Barkemeyer, Ellen Benoit (Matthew), Anna Barkemeyer, and Michael Barkemeyer; and great-grandfather to Jakob Lane, Joshua Lane, and Tatum Benoit. He is also survived by his brother, Robert Barkemeyer, and many cherished nieces, nephews, and friends.

Special thanks to Margaret Wright, Dr. Paul Monsour, and the East Jefferson General Hospital radiation oncology team, Dr. Juan Escobar and the East Jefferson General Hospital wound care team, Dr. Cathi Fontenot, and Passages Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Gaston’s memory to Children’s Hospital of New Orleans, https://www.chnola.org/giving-at-childrens-hospital/ways-to-give/honor-memorial-gifts/

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Mass, with Father Harry Bugler officiating, at St. Dominic Catholic Church, 775 Harrison Ave. in New Orleans, on Friday, November 11, 2022 at 1:00PM. A visitation will be held at the church beginning at 11:00AM. The interment will follow the Mass at All Saints Mausoleum in Metairie Cemetery.

To view and sign the online guest book, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com