Paul Hypolite Dronet

Paul H. Dronet, 79, passed away peacefully Sunday, October 23, 2016.   He was born and raised in Maurice, LA. Helping on his family’s farm and a strong Catholic upbringing taught young Paul charity, diligence, patience, kindness and humility; virtues that he carry throughout his life. A child of the depression era, Paul worked as a mechanic in a service station to put himself through college.  He received his B.S. in Mechanical/Petroleum Engineering from USL in Lafayette; he was also a member of the National Guard. Paul was employed as an engineer for Citgo/Oxy Chem over 35 years. He had a keen intellect and used his mechanical and carpentry skills to help those in need. Paul was always a giver; after his retirement he donated his time preparing taxes for the elderly and delivering for Meals on Wheels.  He was a die-hard LSU fan who never met a stranger and considered visiting with people a hobby. Paul enjoyed all types of gardening, but growing roses was his passion. He would cut roses to share with his neighbors or bring to the local nursing home; and for his daughter, Darnell, he supplied all the roses needed for her wedding.  More than anything, Paul loved spending time with his family. Survivors include his five children, Darrel Dronet of Lafayette, David Dronet of Houston, Donna Schultz of Gonzales, Darnell Dronet Ellender of Carlyss and Dana Dronet Casteel of Sulphur; grandchildren, Claire, Margaret and Annie Dronet of Lafayette; Nathan and Emily Schultz of Gonzales, Sara and Katie Ellender of Sulphur, Michael Casteel of Sulphur, Courtney Price of Baton Rouge and Erin Casteel of Sulphur; and Miette and Annabeth Dronet of Houston; one great grandchild, Emma Price of Baton Rouge; and his sister, Lona Vasquez of Orange.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Aubrey and Edith Dronet. A Memorial Mass will be held Saturday, October 29th at 11 A.M. at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Carlyss. Cremation has been entrusted to Johnson & Robison Funeral Home.