Dolores Kleefisch

Dolores Kleefisch, a dedicated and passionate teacher for over 37 years, passed away on November 27, 2023. She was born on March 20, 1938, in Houston, Texas. Dolores leaves behind a cherished legacy as she touched numerous lives through her career as a teacher.

Dolores taught at several schools throughout her career which included several public schools in Houston, Texas, Opelousas Catholic and Sacred Heart in Grand Coteau, Louisiana. Her commitment and love for her students were evident throughout her career. Dolores had a profound impact on countless young minds with her dedication to education and her unwavering belief in the potential of every student.

Beyond her professional life, Dolores was known for her devotion to family and friends. She found true joy in spending quality time with her loved ones. Her warm and loving nature created bonds that will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Dolores was a devout Catholic and always prayed for those in need.  She was an active member of the Altar Society and the Choir at Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Opelousas, Louisiana. Additionally, she shared her musical talents as a member of the Opelousas Community Choir for many years.

In her leisure time, Dolores enjoyed various hobbies and pursuits. Gardening allowed her to nurture life and find solace among nature's beauty. Woodworking became both a creative outlet and a source of satisfaction for Dolores. Crafting with her grandchildren brought immense joy to their lives as they bonded over shared creativity. But perhaps one of Dolores's greatest pleasures was singing around her house. Gathering with family to play games was another treasured pastime that underscored Dolores's love for meaningful connections.

Dolores leaves behind a host of loved ones whose lives she enriched. She is survived by her devoted husband of 62 years, Raymond Kleefisch. Their love and partnership stood as an example to all who knew them. Dolores is also survived by her son, Raymond Kleefisch, Jr., and his wife Sharon, her daughters, Kathy Barbay and husband Scott, Mary Kleefisch and Debbie Kleefisch and her sister, Mary Adelyn Adams and husband, Ron. Dolores's memory will be carried forward by her grandson, Raymond Kleefisch, III and his wife, Elizabeth, her granddaughters, Megan Kleefisch and Emily Brown and her husband, Ben, as well as her great-grandchild Eliza Jane Kleefisch. She also leaves behind a multitude of nieces, nephews, and dear family members and friends.

A visitation for Dolores will take place on Friday, December 8, 2023, at Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Opelousas, Louisiana. The visitation will be held from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM in the church and a Eulogy will be presented at 2:45 PM.  A Mass of Christian Burial will follow in the church from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM.  The Very Reverend Monsignor Keith J. DeRouen will officiate the Mass.  Finally, a Rite of Committal and Burial will be held in the St. Landry Catholic Church Mausoleum in Opelousas from 4:00 PM to 4:30 PM.

Dolores Kleefisch's profound impact on education and the lives she touched will forever resonate within the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be fondly remembered for her unwavering dedication to teaching and her unwavering love for her family and friends. May she rest in eternal peace, knowing that her legacy lives on in the memories and hearts of all those she touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like for donations to be made in Mrs. Kleefisch's memory to Queen of Angels Catholic Church (2125 S. Union Opelousas, LA 70570) or to Catholic Charities of Acadiana (www.catholiccharitiesacadiana.org)

Family and friends are invited to sign and view the online guestbook at www.lafondardoin.com.

Lafond-Ardoin Funeral Home of Opelousas, 2845 South Union Street, Opelousas, LA, 70570 (337-942-2638) has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.