Louis B. Granger

Louis B. Granger, 79, of Lake Charles died Monday, May 5, 2014 in his residence surrounded by his loving family. On November 9, 1934 Louis B. Granger was welcomed into the world by his mother, Esther Granger, and father Estellee Granger in the small town of Mamou, Louisiana. Born in the midst of the Great Depression, Louis learned the Values of hard work at a very young age. He spent his youth farming, breaking horses, and learning the work of a mechanic. In adolescence he met a young woman named Dora Dean Granger who lived in neighboring Vidrine. The two married in 1953 and eventually went on to have four children. In 1955 the young couple and their infant daughter Joan left for Lake Charles, where Louis attended mechanic school and got a job working at Neal Plymouth. He subsequently worked offshore for Halliburton Oil, before starting his own company called Granger Auto Services. After 25 years of dedicated work for Olin Chemical plant, Louis retired. He enjoyed spending leisure time hunting, fishing, camping, and dancing to his favorite Cajun and swamp pop music. He also took an avid interest in sports and volunteered his time to coaching recreation football and baseball, several times successfully leading teams to victory at All-Star Little League championships. He taught kids that having a great work ethic and showing good showmanship is every bit as important as whether or not they win the game. He rarely missed Mass at St. Martin DePorres Parish where he attended faithfully. He loved his friends and family dearly and couldn't resist stopping to help any stranded motorist he might come across, be they on the side of the road or on the water. He enjoyed the last four years of his life in the company of his beloved partner Melina Conner, whom he leaves behind along with his four children and six grandchildren, one great granddaughter, two step granddaughters, 5 step great grandchildren. Survivors include four children, two daughters, Merinda Joan Vidrine and husband Gary of Lake Charles, Connie LaFleur and husband Keith of Lake Charles; two sons, Mitchell Louis Granger and wife Charlotte of Lake Charles, Patrick Neal Granger and wife Kim of Carlyss, LA; six grandchildren and one great grandchildren; and two stepgrandchilren; and five step great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 55 years, Dora D. Granger; his parents; and one step grandchild. Funeral services will be at 2:00 pm Wednesday, May 7, 2014 at Johnson Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 10:00 am Wednesday until time of service. A rosary will be prayed at 1:00 pm Wednesday prior to services. Burial will be at Consolata Cemetery. Father Keith Pellerin will officiate.