Graveside service for Mr. Gerald “Jerry” Robert DuFresne, age 78 of Ruston, LA will be held at 10:00 AM, Thursday, September 17, 2026 at Prospect Cemetery in Clay, LA with Mr. Carol Martin Sr. and Bro. Aleck Nyegaard officiating. Services are under the direction of Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston, LA.
Jerry was born on July 27, 1948 in Green Bay, WI to Mary and Robert DuFresne and he passed away on Thursday, September 10, 2026 in Ruston, LA. Jerry was a man who never met a stranger. With his warm personality and gift for conversation, you would know when he was comfortable because he would talk your ear off. Jerry was always willing to lend a hand and help wherever he could, asking for nothing in return.
Jerry’s professional life was spent in the maritime industry, beginning with his service in the Coast Guard and continuing through his work with Crowley Maritime Corporation and the American Bureau Shipping. His career in maritime affairs provided him with opportunities to travel and experience life in different parts of the world. Among his adventures, Jerry lived in Dubai for six years, a chapter of his life that reflected his curiosity and love of new experiences.
In 2005, Jerry met his wife, Angie in Morgan City, LA. They married in 2006 and shared 20 years together, creating memories that will always be treasured. Their time together brought companionship, love, and another meaningful chapter to his life.
Outside of work, Jerry enjoyed cooking. He always had time for a cup of coffee, pound cake or a crab boil. Music was another passion and he enjoyed all types, but BB King was the only king if you asked Jerry. He also enjoyed movies, especially those featuring Clint Eastwood.
After retirement, Jerry embraced a slower, quieter way of life. He developed an appreciation for naps and the peace and quiet that country living offered. Jerry found joy in the ordinary moments with his loyal fur babies – Domino, Marla, and Joskey – often by his side. When the day was over, he enjoyed watching TV, especially Alone, Deadliest Catch, Great Food Truck Race, or any type of Law and Order, with his wife, Angie.
Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Robert DuFresne; and his brother, Timothy DuFresne. He is survived by his wife, Angela Webb DuFresne; sister, Jean and husband David Gruetzner of Granite Shoals, TX; son, Tom DuFresne and wife Amy of Janesville, WI; daughter, Marilyn and husband David Dulek of Janesville, WI; grandsons, Bobby DuFresne and wife Emma of Madison, WI and Billy DuFresne of Poynette, WI; and a host of other family and friends.
Serving as pallbearers will be Jeremy Lamkin, Marty Futrell, Johnny McConnell, Carol Martin, Sr., Earl Martin, and Matthew Martin. Honorary pallbearers are Mike Sanchez and Peter Pitre.
The family would like to express their deepest appreciation to Dr. Will Sanders, Tharwatt Ghattas, MD, and the many nurses and staff that has helped care for Jerry. If you would like to leave an online memorial message for the family, please visit: wwwowensmemorialfuneralhome.com
