It’s with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved, Donald “Te’Don” Landreneau.  Born in Mamou, Louisiana, he made his home for the past 42 years in Pine Prairie, Louisiana.  Don loved the Lord, his family, and friends. Many will remember him for his love of Cajun music, dancing and singing; his favorite Balfa Brothers Cajun Band; and his dedication to the preservation of his Cajun heritage. He was the perfect example of “Joie de vivre”. He was the peace maker, loyal to the end, and detailed to a fault. He constantly spoke to and about all the memorable times he spent with many of his dearest friends and family, with whom he cherished time spent. Prior to his death, he was able to celebrate his 75th birthday, leaving one item unattained on his bucket list: one last deer hunt this fall with his dear friends Danny Deshotel, Kenneth ‘Kenny Paul’ Vidrine, and Eric ‘Zeke’ Fontenot. Even though, they made their support and presence known to him throughout his life and illness. He loved and cherished each one as a brother.

His “HAPPY PLACE” was outdoors, whether on a hunt, fishing from a boat, or camping, especially in the company of his friends and family. For him, sitting and waiting for buffaloes and gold coins to appear alongside his niece Renee, and his “brother from another mother,” Keith, was never about winning or losing. These moments were always about spending time with those he loved.  The countless, endless stories he told knew no season nor time restrictions. Yes, when he told a story, you got every single detail! Campfires were where he regrouped and reset. Even in July—he could be seen in the glow of the blaze of his backyard fire ring..Every project he started, whether during his 47 years employed by Cleco or at home, was carefully laid out and completed at his own pace, no matter how long it took. Regardless, all projects were completed.When he received the diagnosis of pancreatic adenocarcinoma, he approached the news as though it were another project. First and foremost, he was going to live out his days grateful for all of the good times, good life, good family, and good friends he had. He especially wanted to be near home by his son, Dominique, and his wife, Darlene. He remained optimistic and in good spirits throughout.

Don shared his love with his wife of 44 years, Darlene Johnson Landreneau, and son, Dominique Landreneau, both of Pine Prairie. Other survivors include his siblings, Eura Mae Vidrine and Dale (Sandra) Landreneau. Also, his sisters-in-law Belca (Ray) Carson and Nelta (Dennis) Brown, along with his dedicated friend, brother of the heart, Kenneth Paul (Kenny Paul) Vidrine. He was further blessed to have a host of 32 nieces, nephews, and their spouses, along with enumerable great and great-great nieces and nephews. Those who left before to welcome him home include his parents Eloi and Vinice Naquin Landreneau; sister, Mary Lou Landreneau Ardoin; brothersin-law, Joseph Weber Ardoin and James Ronald ‘Red’ Vidrine; greatnephews and great-niece, Heidi Hinton, Joseph Hodge, Steven Ardoin, and Michael Reed. His father-in-law and mother-in-law, Dillard and Aventine Brunet Johnson.

To know him was to love him. For him to be a part of your life was a blessing.  “In his on terms. In his on time.”

A celebration honoring his life will be announced in the comings days.

Ardoin's Funeral Home invites family and friends to leave condolences for the family at www.ardoinfuneralhomes.com.l