SIDNEY LOUIS GELPI JR.
Sidney Louis Gelpi Jr., of New Orleans, Louisiana, passed away on January 1, 2025, at the age of 89.
A native of New Orleans, Louisiana, he was born on July 24, 1935. Sidney was preceded in death by his loving parents, Sidney Louis Gelpi Sr. and Althea Moffet Gelpi; his caring stepmother, Rosemary Birthwright Gelpi; and his sister, Althea E. Gelpi.
Sidney’s legacy is carried on by his wife of 39 years, Cecilia McNab, and his loving children, Elizabeth Gelpi, Michael Gelpi (Cindy), Patrick Gelpi (Melody), Daniel Gelpi (Star), Robin Lewis (Kyle), and Kelly Longhini (Peter). Together they shared memories that will continue to be cherished.
His life was further enriched by the joy of his grandchildren, Ryan, Miranda, Sarah, Madelyn, Marina, Laura, Aimee, Brandon, Faith, Douglas, Reed, Ella, Cooper, and Ashton, and great-grandchildren, Oliver, Kira, and Ella. Sidney also leaves behind his brother, C. James Gelpi, and a host of extended family members, all of whom will miss him dearly.
Sidney’s formative years were spent at Jesuit High School, where he graduated with the Class of 1954. A natural leader and athlete, he served as the captain of both the football and track and field teams, leading the former to a State Championship in 1954. His athletic prowess earned him a track scholarship to Tulane University, and he later continued his education at the University of Louisiana in Lafayette. Sidney’s exceptional talents on the track field were recognized with multiple state records, a testament to his dedication and skill.
After completing his education, Sidney embarked on a distinguished career that included tenures at J. Ray McDermott and Chevron. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish S.L. Gelpi Engineering LLC, where he applied his expertise to the design of structural components for offshore oil rigs. His work not only showcased his innovative mind but also contributed to the advancement of the engineering field.
Sidney’s interests extended beyond his professional life; a former ROTC member and a proud Jesuit alumnus, he remained actively involved with his alma mater throughout his life. His love for the stars was evident in his pursuit of observational astronomy, a hobby that allowed him to gaze upon the heavens and share his knowledge with others. An avid sailor, Sidney was also a dedicated member and instructor of the U.S. Power Squadron, where he combined his love for the water with his commitment to education.
Those who knew Sidney best would describe him as loving—a word that encapsulates his approach to life and his interactions with others. His warmth and generosity knew no bounds, and his presence was a source of comfort and joy to his family and friends. He will be remembered not only for the records he set or the structures he helped design but for the countless lives he touched with his kindness and his unwavering spirit.
Sidney will be laid to rest at a graveside service at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 18, 2025 in Greenwood Cemetery – Lot 48, located on Mistletoe Avenue. Memories and condolences may be expressed at www.AudubonFuneralHome.com
FRANK LEE ‘BO’ ABNEY
Frank Lee “Bo” Abney age 76, passed away on Thursday December 12, 2024. Born in New Orleans on June 9, 1948, to Linky and Lou Abney.
He is survived by his loving companion, Tammy O’Rourke of 13 years.
He was the brother to the late Lincoln M. Abney, and the late Judith Eileen Fitzwilson. He is survived by brother Thomas S. Abney; his daughters, Heather Rae Abney and Rachel Abney Maes; son in law Mike Maes; grandchildren Fiona and Elle Maes, and Charlotte and Elliot.
He graduated from Slidell High School lettering in football and baseball. He attended UNO in 1970 where he was a member of their 1st baseball team.
He loved playing golf and was a race car enthusiast. He was passionate about anything LSU.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, Journey Church, 1460 Lindberg Dr. Visitation starting at 9 a.m. and service starting at 10 a.m. Wear your LSU gear! In lieu of flowers donate to the American Cancer Society.
FLORENCE MARY SOULANT
Florence Mary Bourgeois Soulant was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on November 14, 1929. Florence left this world on January 4, 2025.
She married Charles L. Soulant, Jr. on January 2, 1949. Florence was a loving wife for 72 years and raised three children, Cynthia (Cindy), Charles III (Chuck) and Susan.
Her greatest joy was attending to her family as a loving wife, mother, daughter, sister and grandmother.
She is survived by her children and their families; Cynthia Ann Soulant Chapman and her husband Alvin Chapman and their son Steven E. Chapman his wife Susanne, son Ethan and daughter Ella Chapman, Charles L. Soulant, III and his wife Kimberly S. Soulant and son Christian Loren Soulant, Susan Mary Soulant Jones and her husband Scott Jones, their three children Ryan Jones and his wife Kaylynn, Amy Jones and Anna Jones.
She was preceded in her death by her husband, Charles L. Soulant, Jr, her mother Bertha (Betty) and father Octave Bourgeois.
Also, her brother John Francis and sister Shirley Bourgeois Kinzly.
We have been blessed to have Florence in our lives. Please celebrate her life and do not mourn, for she is now with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
HENRY J. HITZMAN
Henry J. Hitzman adored husband of Margie Duchmann Hitzman was greeted by God on January 10, 2025.
Beloved father of Natalie Droddy (Randall), and Natasha Mapp. Fun loving PawPaw of 12 grandchildren and one great-grandson. He was a Navy veteran who served three tours of duty during the Vietnam war. He was a Safety Engineer at Lockheed Martin for 22 years.
His hobbies were playing cards, fishing and watching the Saints.
Cremation and no service. In lieu of flowers please donate to Tunnels to Towers. (Henry’s home address: 61263 Forest Drive Lacombe, La. 70445)
Audubon Funeral Home Obituary Listings
(For information on services, contact Audubon at 985-645-0600 or online at: audubonfuneralhome.com)
Ronald Anthony DeRogers, Sr., age 71, of Slidell, LA, passed away on Friday, January 3, 2025.
A native of Mix, LA, he was a graduate of Rosenwald High School and had a passion for building, leading to a successful career as a self-employed contractor.
He enjoyed restoring antique cars and trucks in his free time.
Honaker Funeral Home Obituary Listings
(For more information on services, contact Honaker at 985-641-1900 or online at: honakerforestlawn.com)
Daniel William Cooper, Jr., age 89, of Slidell, LA, passed away on Thursday, January 2, 2025.
Born in New Orleans, LA, he served as an airman on the USS Intrepid during the Korean War and later graduated from LSU with a Civil Engineering degree.
He worked for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the construction division until retiring at age 55.
He enjoyed fishing, gardening, hanging out at boat launches, Cajun music and rigging up contraptions.
Norman Arthur Steger, age 90, of Slidell, LA, passed away on Friday, December 27, 2024.
A native of Overland, MO, he graduated with an Engineering School at Washington University in St. Louis, MO, and worked for North American Aviation, then later served in the U.S. Army. After the military he worked at North American/Rockwell as a rocket engineer test engineer, before later working at the Stennis Space Center in MS.
He volunteered for 20 years with STARC and was a member of Aldersgate Methodist Church.
Cynthia Susan Pichon Abney, age 81, of Slidell, LA, passed away on Friday, January 10, 2025.
A lifelong resident of Slidell after she was born in New Orleans, LA, she was a lifelong homemaker who loved cooking, playing games of all kinds and enjoying a visit to the casino or bingo hall.