Donald Anthony Folse, Sr.

Donald A. Folse, Sr., lifelong resident of Gretna, LA, passed away on April 13, 2024, at the age of 90 years. He was a devoted husband of 71 years to Lois Bergeron Folse, loving father of the late Susan Folse, the late Daniel Folse (Laura), Peggy Folse, Donald Folse, Jr., (Rhea), Patty Adair (Glenn), Joan Kiddie, Nancy Licciardi (Michael), Walter Folse II (Ginger), and Nicholas Folse, adoring Grandfather and Great-Grandfather to many, brother of Rene Folse, Sr., (Agnes), Katherine Snelson (Wayne), brother-in-law to Geraldine Richards, Irvin Bergeron, Bertha Bleuler, and Lynda Templet (Albert).

Donald graduated from Holy Name of Mary High School in Algiers, LA. He then entered the Air Force as an Instrument Specialist in the Strategic Air Command, stationed in Lake Charles, LA. It was during this time that his lifelong love of all things aviation was cultivated. Donald worked for Chevron Chemical at the Oronite Facility in Belle Chasse, LA for many years. He eventually became self-employed as the owner and operator of Donald’s Tractor Service until his retirement in 2005.

Donald was a loving and respected father figure to his family as well as countless friends and neighbors. His knowledge of mechanics, electricity, and general maintenance was shared with all who asked his advice.

Donald was quite the practical joker in his youth and his sense of humor never faltered, even in sickness. He enjoyed fishing, even when there was no fish to be caught. His favorite saying was, “The worst day of fishing is still better than the best day at work!”

Donald’s priorities in life were his faith and his family. He and Lois were seldom seen without one another. They enjoyed going for long rides and falling asleep in each other’s arms. He was always interested in helping his children. He loved singing to his grandchildren and taking them for rides on his wheelchair. He loved the large gatherings of family for holidays, special occasions, and for no reason at all.

We would like to thank the staff at Sage Lake Senior Living Facility in Covington, LA, and The Heart of Hospice organizations in Gretna, LA and in Covington, LA for their care.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation  on April 23, 2024, at St. Martha Church in Harvey, LA from 9:30a.m. with a Mass starting at 11:30 a.m.