Raeburk Soileau

Raeburk Soileau, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2023, at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Nursing Home in Opelousas, LA. Born on April 5, 1927, in Ville Platte, Louisiana, he leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, at 1:30 pm at St. Landry Catholic Church.  Father Clint Trahan will celebrate the Mass.  Rite of Committal will follow at the Holy Sepulcher Mausoleum in Opelousas.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, in the Skip Montet Memorial Chapel at Lafond-Ardoin Funeral Home in Opelousas beginning at 9:30 a.m. until the time of the Rosary at 12:30 p.m.

Raeburk worked for 30 years at the American Can Company in New Orleans.  His dedication to his work was evident.  Beyond his professional endeavors, Raeburk was a talented musician.  He entertained friends and family with his beautiful accordion and fiddle music. Watching the New Orleans Saints and LSU football was another passion that Raeburk held dear. Above all else, Raeburk valued his family and treasured every moment spent with them, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Raeburk faithfully attended St. Landry Catholic Church as a parishioner for 40 years. His spiritual journey served as a source of solace, guidance, and strength.

Raeburk also had a patriotic spirit, having served in the United States Army during World War II. He bravely fought for his country in the Philippines.

When not working or spending time with loved ones, Raeburk found solace in nature's embrace. Hunting allowed him to connect with the outdoors. Additionally, he enjoyed nurturing his vegetable garden, where he had the pleasure of watching seeds blossom into bountiful harvests year after year. 

Raeburk Soileau's memory will forever live on through those fortunate enough to have known him. He leaves behind precious memories that will be treasured by his surviving family members: his daughters, Bonnie Evans and her husband, Ray; and Paula Badzinski and her husband, Brian; his grandchildren, Kristine Duffy and her husband, Mike; and Angela Badzinski, as well as his great-grandchildren, Dominic, Adriana, and Landon.  He is also survived by his brother, Malcolm Soileau and wife, Jane; and his sister, Rosa Smith.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Anna Lou F. Soileau; his parents, Cenia Soileau and Ernestine J. Soileau; his brothers, Mervis Soileau, Vernal Soileau, Andrew Soileau, and Landry Soileau; and his brother-in-law, Ansley Smith.

In the realm of life's tapestry, Raeburk Soileau's presence was a brushstroke of love, compassion, and unwavering devotion. May his soul find eternal peace and may those he leaves behind find solace in the memories of a life well-lived.

Family and friends are invited to visit our website 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.