Weldon A. Frommeyer Jr.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Weldon Albert Frommeyer Jr., affectionately known as "The Gator" and "FRO," on October 28, 2024, at his home in Metairie, Louisiana, with his wife, Loretta, by his side. Born on June 25, 1950, in New Orleans, LA, Weldon was a force of nature who touched countless lives through his work, his family, and his unbreakable spirit.

Weldon, son of Weldon Albert Frommeyer Sr. and Anna Mae Curoso Frommeyer, grew up in a vibrant neighborhood off Napoleon Avenue, where he learned the values of resilience and hard work. After attending Our Lady of the Lourdes, he went on to St. Stanislaus College in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, where he was an All-State football star, even earning the nickname “Wendy’s All-Beef” for his strength and tenacity on the field. After high school, Weldon set out to make a living, becoming a traveling candy salesman to gas stations and convenience stores across south Louisiana and Mississippi. He lived on the road in his refurbished Winnebago, selling candy by day and sleeping in the mobile shop at night.

In 1978, his journey took a defining turn. Weldon owned the Batture Restaurant in St. Rose, LA, and, as the story goes, his garbage hadn’t been picked up one too many times. Frustrated, Weldon wanted answers—and the garbage man’s “then why don’t you do it yourself?” attitude was all the challenge Weldon needed. With a single pickup truck, he launched St. Charles Disposal, hauling garbage for his restaurant and a few nearby customers. In 1983, this humble garbage venture evolved into River Parish Disposal, which would become the largest locally owned and operated commercial waste company in the Greater New Orleans area.

Old-school New Orleans through and through, Weldon was known to walk into any room with a presence that commanded attention. If he didn’t know someone, he knew someone who did, and that’s how he got things done. His belief that relationships open doors was evident in how he spent every moment connecting with people and tending to his business. Weldon was a regular at some of New Orleans’ favorite restaurants, like Mandina’s and Eleven79, regaling friends and strangers alike with his stories, humor, and charm.

In his younger years, when Weldon wasn’t working, he could be found on the golf course or fishing and he loved time with his family at their home on the Jourdan River on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. A hardworking man to his core, Weldon remained humble and focused on what truly mattered- his loved ones and his community.

For 43 years, Weldon was devoted to his beloved wife, Loretta Chiasson Frommeyer, who was his partner in life and his greatest source of joy. Together, they shared a love that spanned over four decades, nurturing a family that became his proudest accomplishment. Weldon is survived by his wife, Loretta, and his children and grandchildren: Dawn Frommeyer; Heather Frommeyer (Derek Sagona), and grandson Paul Frommeyer; Brandy Frommeyer Alford (Barry), with grandchildren Matt, Sidney, Kole, Mckenzie, Mike, and Maxx; Ashley Frommeyer Wimprine (Danny), with grandchildren Madden, Baylor, Finley, and Dempsey; Weldon “Brother” Frommeyer III (Kati), with grandchildren Elsie and Weldon "Wells" Anthony. He is also survived by his niece and goddaughter, Amanda Bieganowski Koll (Casey); his niece, Nicole Vanzile Hurst (Ashley); as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He is also survived by his sister, Vicki Frommeyer Vanzile, and her husband, Lee Vanzile, as well as his brother-in-law, Albert “Buddy” Bieganowski. Weldon was predeceased by his parents and sister, Leslie Frommeyer Bieganowski.

Weldon was a true New Orleans character, he built his business with a handshake, a smile, and an unforgettable story at every turn. Weldon leaves behind a legacy as indomitable as his spirit and as enduring as the business he built. His commitment to his work, his family, and his friends will forever be a testament to a life well lived and a heart deeply loved. He will be remembered as a dedicated businessman, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and a friend to many.

Rest easy, Gator.

Thank you to all his doctors and care team, especially Dr. Oliver Sartor, and the love and support of the entire River Parish Disposal team.

A visitation for Weldon will be held Saturday, November 9, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Victory Church, 5708 Airline Dr, Metairie, Louisiana 70003, followed by a funeral Mass at 2:00 PM, with a graveside thereafter at Metairie Cemetery, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd, New Orleans, Louisiana 70124.