Willie Ray Berzas, Jr.

Willie Ray Berzas, Jr, our beloved husband, father, grandfather and uncle passed away on February 11, 2021. Known by most as Will, he was born in Chataignier, Louisiana to Willie Ray and Rose Billedeaux Berzas. The only son and youngest of five children, the family moved to Lake Charles when he was eight years old. He graduated from LaGrange Senior High School in 1960 and married the love of his life, Wyonna Ruth Bruno, in 1964.

Will had a diverse career, from selling custom suits to eventually retiring as an electrician and consultant. Retiring early from Conoco, he continued working for electrical contracting and engineering companies for the next ten years. A self-described “Jack of all trades, Master of none,” he was well respected in the industry. In his retirement he spent many hours piddling in his shop or on his latest camper van, one of many he had through the years.

His hobbies ranged from golf and fishing, to listening to music and cooking meals with family and friends. He and Wyonna loved travelling and the casinos, actively participated in high school reunions, and always looked forward to social gatherings among friends and Krewe du Lac events. Will served our community through his 50 year membership in St. Margaret’s Knights of Columbus Chapter 3208, where he was Grand Knight for two years and a member of the cooking team that won third place in a state-wide gumbo cook-off. In December 2020, he and Wyonna were recognized by the Knights as “Family of the Year” for their acts of service.

Family was a huge part of Will’s life. Some of the happiest and most memorable times were Christmas Eve parties in his home and the annual spring fishing trip to Toledo Bend. The Toledo Bend trip evolved over the years to include multiple generations of family and friends, who eventually spent more time sharing meals and telling stories than fishing on the lake. Will would hope that the family continues these traditions where we know he will be in spirit.

He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Wyonna, his three children and two beautiful granddaughters: Christy Moore and husband Spencer of Bellaire, TX; Wade Berzas, wife Patti, and daughter Kathryn of Los Angeles, CA; and Missy Bushnell, husband Ronnie, and daughter Sarah Catherine of Lake Charles.

Will was preceded in death by his parents and four sisters, Mabel Featherston, Nettie Ortego, Lou Thibodeaux, and Juanita Dale Schuette, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He leaves a large legacy of family and friends to honor his memory.

Visitation will be Sunday, February 21 from 4:00-8:00 pm at University Baptist Church, with a rosary at 6:00 pm. Funeral services will be Monday, February 22 at 1:00 pm at St. Margaret Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Consolata Cemetery under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home. The family respectfully asks attendees to wear a face mask while attending all services. Favorite memories and words of comfort may be expressed at www.johnsonfuneralhome.net