Don Fletcher

Don Fletcher, age 82, born in Cumberland, MD and a resident of Baton Rouge, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2016, in the presence of his wife, children and grandchildren. He was a determined and courageous champion to overcome many health setbacks in recent years. He trusted God and knew his faith would carry him when his body couldn't. Don was a wonderful husband to Hilda (Fernandez) for 56 years and a loving father to Paul (Joel Meredith), Alicia (Jim) Ford and Annette Gaudet. He was most fond and proud of his 8 grandchildren: Austin, Stephen and Ashton Fletcher; James (Stephanie Wagner) and Conor Ford; and Victoria, Alexa and Gabby Gaudet.

He enjoyed and cherished participating in his children and grandchildren's lives. From sports (football and soccer) to life events, Don would engage in everyone's lives. He was a fixture on the sidelines at St. Michael sport events where his son Paul coaches. He enjoyed fishing, travelling with Hilda and participating in events at his church, Most Blessed Sacrament, where he was a member of the Men's Club and the Knights of Columbus.

Don had a passion for football, especially LSU and Saints Football! He was a devoted fan and would ensure that everyone knew a recent score, a newly signed player or draft pick. He developed his love for football as a college athlete on the University of West Virginia football team. Don was an All-State Lineman at Allegany High School in Cumberland, MD.

Don also had a special spot in his heart for his youngest granddaughter, Gabby, with whom he enjoyed participating in Special Olympic events. All of his grandchildren's achievements became his bragging rights. We would be remiss if we didn't mention that he was fond of teasing his kids and grandkids, too! He was full of wit and humorous anecdotes and enjoyed a cup of coffee and a great conversation!

He is survived by his sisters, Pat Fletcher (Klingensmith) of Tampa, FL and Dolores Fletcher of San Francisco, CA. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Hazel Fletcher.

The family is grateful and would like to thank all the special care, support and encouragement the following heroes provided for Don's many health battles:
Baton Rouge Rehab Hospital, especially Marilu Major and Roxane Bingham where Don learned to walk again after losing his right leg below the knee and where he also learned to re-drive and attended Amputee Support Group meetings. The family would also like to thank Dr. Culotta's ICU team at Baton Rouge General Hospital (Bluebonnet) and Dr. Moraes for their compassionate medical care and sympathetic consultation with the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Cajun Crushers Amputee Team through Baton Rouge Rehab Hospital (contact: Roxane Bingham, 225-927-0567); the Special Olympics (https://donate.specialolympics.org) and the St. Vincent de Paul Society (www.svdpbr.org).

Visiting hours will be observed on Tuesday, January 12, 2016, at Most Blessed Sacrament, 15615 Jefferson Highway, from 12:00 PM until the time of services.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, January 12, 2016, at 1:00 PM.

A Private burial ceremony will follow.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge.com.

Visitation

Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church
15615 Jefferson Hwy
Baton Rouge, LA  70817
Tuesday, January 12, 2016
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

Service

Mass of Christian Burial

Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church
15615 Jefferson Hwy
Baton Rouge, LA  70816
Tuesday, January 12, 2016
1:00 pm