Doug "The Frenchman" Le Tourneau, 72, passed away unexpectedly on 26 July 2019. Doug was born in Burbank, California to Marcel L and Bette L (Kingsbury) Le Tourneau. He was raised in Van Nuys where he belonged to Boy Scout Troop 66. After military service, he continued supporting the Scout's by becoming a Cub Scout Den leader.
While a member and President of the Future Farmers of America at Van Nuys High School, Doug discovered his passion for the cowboy life. He learned riding and roping skills at Paramount Studio’s Cooper’s filming / movie ranch in Thousand Oaks, competed in intercollegiate rodeo while attending Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and further honed his skills at AFRICA U.S.A, where he worked as a wild animal trainer for shows to include Daktari and Cowboy in Africa. His job at the ranch included roping tigers and elephants.
On September 1, 1967 Doug joined the Army and volunteered for Special Forces. He graduated from Training Group in 1968 as a Light/Heavy Weapons Sergeant. His first assignment was the 5th Special Forces Group, MACV SOG (CCN). Doug became a highly accomplished and respected Recon Team member and One-Zero. In his brief career he earned his Parachutist Badge, Combat Infantryman's Badge, Bronze Star, Air Medal, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry w/Palm and Vietnamese Service and Campaign Medals. He was then assigned to HHC, 2nd Bn, USAIMA when he left active duty and transferred to the Reserves.
Doug became a rancher in Tennessee and Texas. He was known for his prized cattle. Doug is survived by his children, Laura and LJ; his sister, Diane and her husband, Lee Carter, who was a lifelong friend.
A viewing will be held on 7 August at 10:30am at St. Mel's Catholic Church, 20870 Ventura Blvd., Woodland Hills, CA followed by his funeral service at 11:30am at St. Mel's Catholic Church. Then his graveside service with military honors will be at the Pierce Bros. Valley Oaks Cemetery, 5600 Lindero Canyon Rd. Westlake Village, CA. There will be a Celebration of Doug's Life at 1:30pm at the La Paz Mexican Restaurant, 4505 La Virgenes Rd. Calabasas, CA.
Doug will be missed by his family, comrades, and many friends whose lives he touched.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Special Operations Assoc. Scholarship Fund at the link below.
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