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Louis Clouatre Obituary

Louis August Clouatre, a native and resident of Baton Rouge, died on Holy Saturday, March 30, 2013 at the age of 84. Born February 11, 1929, he attended Sacred Heart Catholic Elementary for two years and Catholic High for 3rd – 12th grade. He graduated from Catholic High in 1946. He graduated from LSU in 1951 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education, and in 1957 received his Master's degree in Education from LSU. From 1949-1951, he worked for Doug Manship, Sr. at Baton Rouge Broadcasting as a radio engineer for WJBO. He served in the Korean War from 1951-1953. In 1953 he began teaching math at Shady Grove High School in Iberville Parish. He retired from the public school system in 1973 and accepted a teaching position at his alma mater, Catholic High School. He spent 14 years at Catholic High School before accepting a position in the math department at LSU in 1987. After one year, he returned to where he felt his true calling was: high school math. He taught at St. Michael's High School from 1988-2002 and was an on-staff math tutor at University High School from 2002-2007. Louis was preceded in death by his father Edgar Clouatre of Paincourtville, LA and by his mother Henriette Levrien Clouatre of Pierrefitte, France; his brother Emile and his wife Evelyn and their son Mark; his brother Claude and his wife Jean and their daughter Dana and son Brett. Louis is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Verna Mae Birckel of New Orleans; daughter Renee and husband David Trusty and their children Lauren and John; daughter Michelle and husband Stan Harris and their children Patricia and Elizabeth; son Andre and wife Giselle and their children Miguel and Antonio; daughter Joelle and her daughter Bryn; his niece Terri Boudreaux and his nephews Glen Clouatre and Keith Clouatre. The Funeral Rites will begin on Saturday, April 6 at St. Aloysius Catholic Church with Morning Prayer at 8:30 a.m. followed by visitation in the church from 9:00-10:30 a.m. The Funeral Mass will commence at 10:30 a.m. celebrated by Fr. Than Vu, and a reception will follow immediately in the Parish Hall. The rites will conclude with the burial at 2:00 p.m. at St. George Catholic Church Cemetary. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Louis A. Clouatre '46 Endowment Fund, C/O Catholic High School, 808 Hearthstone Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70808.

Published by The Advocate from Mar. 31 to Apr. 6, 2013.
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Memories and Condolences
for Louis Clouatre

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10 years to the day, I learned of his passing. Great teacher, mentor, and man. His legacy is the impact he had on the many he taught.

Wade Goodhart CHS `82

March 30, 2023

I discovered a breviary (prayer book) with Louis´ name among my late father´s (Dr Malcolm Griffin) belongings, and it brought back memories of a visit our family paid to yours when my brother and I were children. Daddy spoke fondly of your family. Sending our condolences.

Rose Griffin

Other

August 13, 2022

Ms. Verna and Family,
Mr. Clouatre was a wonderful teacher and a great mentor. The four years of math that he taught me at Shady Grove were such a blessing. I always thought that I was his “favorite student” and now I know that he made everyone feel that way. He not only taught math but gospel values also; and he lived them every day. Ms. Verna, we will always be indebted to you and Mr. Lou for all that you did for our family. Please know how much we love you. One day we will all rejoice in our Father's house.

Greg Kleinpeter

April 30, 2013

Mr. Clouatre taught me 8th grade math at CHS Baton Rouge many years ago, but time has not diminished the wonderful memories I have of him. In his math class we had to do it his way. We couldn't have it our way--and he reminded us this with writing the first day of class on the chalkboard a big BK with a circle around it and line through it. The first two questions he posed to us on the first day of class I'll never forget. How many numbers was this? He wrote a 2-digit number. Was it 1 or 2? The class couldn't agree. The second was what |4| meant. I took a stab at describing what 'absolute value' meant, stumbled over my words miserably, got corrected compassionately but in his typical gruff and humorous way, and off we went. This was just the beginning of the epic adventure of 8th grade math that year. Somehow the 35 of us made it to the end of the class and the end of the year, better off in math, but also better off in life for having had him teach us, even though we didn't know it at the time. I'll never forget our 8th grade 'graduation' ceremony 9 months later. Mr. Clouatre stayed behind afterwards to congratulate me and had very kind words to say to my parents. My dad was particularly touched that this teacher had taken that time. That was 1987. Memories of people like Mr. Clouatre haven't faded away and I know others were and are inspired by his life as I was. Rest in peace Mr. Clouatre!

Bernard Assaf, CHS '91

April 30, 2013

Dear Mrs. Clouatre and Family,

I have waited to write my offer of sympathy thinking that perhaps I would find the words to express my condolences. However, I have found no way to tell of the overwhelming impact that Mr. Clouatre has had on my life.

I suppose to say simply that he loved me should say it all...and yet there seems to be so much more...so much that I do not have the words.

Mr. Clouatre made me feel that I had value. To have had him and you, Mrs. Clouatre, as my teachers, my mentors, and my friends has taught me of the love that God has for me.

I will always remember and cherish the many weekends during my teenage years when you invited me to spend precious times with you and your family. These visits and your kindnesses have had a profound influence for they have showed me the beauty of life lived for Christ. I am forever grateful!

Thanking God for the promise of heaven and meeting once again,
suzette

Suzette Kleinpeter Freeman

April 29, 2013

U will be missed by so many!
Bishop Sullivan class of 92

Gretchen Gautreau

April 17, 2013

Verna and Family,
Mr. Clouatre's death has been a huge blow to all of his students, friends, and family. Years ago I was fortunate to have the Advocate print an article that I wrote about him. I expressed everything that was in my heart for the appreciation and love that all of us felt for him.
I am very sorry that I was unable, due to health reasons, to attend his funeral. Please express my
sympathy to your family.

Joan Prejean

April 17, 2013

Mr. Clouarte,
So young when he came to us at Shady Grove...and yet so wise.... He taught me so much more than algebra or geometry. Lessons I learned from him helped me to reach and help my students during my years of teaching.... Great teacher, great person, great mentor. ...great loss.
Beatrice Peranio Taylor

Beatrice Taylor

April 14, 2013

Lisa Bell Reinauer

April 8, 2013

Ms. Clouarte:
This is Donald Courville. I am very sorry for your loss. I just want to let you know that Mr. Clouarte had a profound effect on me during the years at Shady Grove. I admired his faith and how it was evident to everyone who was around him. He was in inspiration to me in those impressionable years. Sometimes we don't realize how much we influence others in our lives. He had a very positive influence on me. I will miss him, but I know my dad is shaking his hand now in heaven. My dad paased away 16 years ago. Our job just go a little bit harder. You see, they are bragging on us now and we have to live up to that bragging. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

April 8, 2013

Thanks Mr. Clou. For everything! College Algebra and Trigonometry lessons, but more importantly lessons in life that I remember each day. I forgot the bad jokes, but remember the most important lesson...Love one another!

Stacy Auzenne

April 8, 2013

Thank you for teaching me algebra. I just wish I could have been a more worthy student.

Chris Chiasson

April 7, 2013

After attending the services for Mr.Louis August Clouarte I am more sure now than ever that this man had a profoundly positive effect on at least one person every single day of his long and generous life. I know that I was that person blessed by his association on more than one occasion and on more than one day. Gods speed and thank you.........

Stephen Holliday

April 6, 2013

I came to know Mr. Lou through my employer, Dr. Curtis Chastain,a former student of Mr. Lou's. Every Tuesday morning he would come to the office just to chat, while sipping his coffee and telling jokes. He wouldn't be Mr. Lou without his jokes.
What an honor it was to have known him. His kind and gentle spirit was an inspiration to us all. Our Tuesday mornings just won't be the same without you!
In Loving memory of a "very special" person. You will forever live in our Hearts.

Cheryl Marcaurele

April 6, 2013

Verna and family-Jimbo and John were both lucky pupils of my friend, Lou Clou, at Catholic High. Both you and Lou had a profound effect on their lives they are are now in Arizona and send their sympathy along with mine.

JAMES Pierson

April 6, 2013

I was blessed to have known and been taught by the best math teacher ever! He had a gift and I'm so glad that he chose to share it with so many of us. Prayers to your family in this time of sorrow.

Kristie Olexy Forbes

April 5, 2013

Lou was a "Ham" (radio operator that is), how I knew him along with AL. Joy, as others have stated, "he was a great math teacher" and prepared many for college and beyond. We've missed his input to Smiley's column. A good life, good memories and a good man... Peace be with you Lou...

Bob Loudon

April 5, 2013

Mr. Clouatre, as many have stated, was one of the best teachers I had pleasure of knowing and learning from! Who could forget the lollipops as a discipline tool. There always seems to be one teacher who makes a differerence in our lives and I count Mr. Clouatre as mine. He always represented himself and the school with great dignity and had a tremendous way of connecting with students. May God Bless you like you've blessed us!

Thad Rispone

April 5, 2013

Thank You Mr. Clouatre for having such a positive effect on so many lives! Your legacy will live on for generations! You inspired me into a math related career! You were truly One of a Kind! God Bless You!

Fred Fletcher

April 5, 2013

Truly one of the finest men and teachers i ever had the pleasure of knowing. I was honored to have him as a teacher. Rest in Peace Mr. Clouatre. You have more than earned you place in heaven.

Larry Johnson

April 5, 2013

Mr. Clouatre was by far the most amazing teacher I ever had. He was determined to have everyone understand college algebra. Thank you for your willing to strive for excellence. You will not be forgotten. My prayers are with your family.

Claudia Sanchez Boudreaux

April 5, 2013

Mr. Clouatre was always someone I admired greatly. Not only was he a fantastic teacher, he was a better person. He will truly be missed, especially by me. We are all better for having known him & being taught not only Math lessons, but life lessons! Rest in peace & May God be with your family in this time of loss. You are the BEST!!

Perry Key

April 5, 2013

Mr. Clouatre was a man who live the fath well. He would administer communion with great joy at the school masses. I send my condolences to his family

Class of 1992

Steven Tilley

April 5, 2013

Mr. Clouatre was by far one of the best teachers I ever had. I will never forget him and what he taught. I am so sorry for your loss. May he rest in peace.

Jennifer Bailey Smith

April 5, 2013

Mr Clouatre was the best math teacher, ever. Condolences to his family.
Larry Brown, Sr - Class of '65

April 4, 2013

I remember Lou taping Mike Cody's sermons at LSU chapel on sunday mornings. He was an extraordinary man.

stephanie bourgeois

April 4, 2013

Mr. Clouatre was a wonderful role model and teacher! I feel blessed to have been one of his many students. Praying for him and his family.

Angie Bourgeois Meche

April 4, 2013

Mr. Clouatre was one of the best teachers I ever had. He was tough, but his class made college math a breeze for me. He will certainly be missed. Thank you for all that you did Mr. Clouatre!!

Melissa Major Terito

April 4, 2013

With Heartfelt Sympathy,

Ginger F. Smith

April 4, 2013

Verna and Family, What a wonderful life Lou had! A loving wife, children and good friends.I never forget Lou and Al joking and talking about old times; I hope they're doing in now. Lou was the model of a Christian gentleman. Wishing you comfort and solace, Tom Oswald

Tom Oswald

April 4, 2013

Mr Clouatre was one of a kind and a very great teacher. My though processes are clearer and keener thanks to my interaction with him. He will be missed. Keeping him and his family in My thoughts.

Chris Pope

April 4, 2013

Mr. Clouatre was the best teacher and mentor that Shady Grove ever had. I was lucky to have him for his first year of teaching there. What a wonderful influence he had on all of us...With love and admiration to him and his family.

Marietta Guerin Easterly

April 4, 2013

My deepest condolences to Verna and family. Be consoled by the thoughts and prayers of your family and friends...

Barbara Dumas-Haynes

April 3, 2013

He was a kind and generous man. My husband and I were both students of his and will remember him always. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Elise Linden Antrobus

April 3, 2013

Mr. Clouatre was the only person in my "Catholic" education who loved us enough to read to us out of the Bible each class. Lou Clou, you gave me a heck of an example to follow and I am eternally grateful.

Jessica Dugas

April 3, 2013

My deepest sympathy for the loss of a great person.
Dr. A.D. Teague, Mooresville, NC

April 3, 2013

We are saddened by Lou's passing. When we met at different churches for daily Mass he used to say we were "Roaming Catholics," instead of Roman. It always made us laugh. Connie and Armando Corripio.

April 3, 2013

Mr. Clouatre was always great at explaining math, always fair, always ready with a joke, and always doing his best for his students. He was very kind to me. I was lucky to study with him for three years at Catholic High in the 70s, and he was my all-time favorite teacher. Thank you, Mr. Clouatre. You were the best.

Greg Barnett

April 3, 2013

I so enjoyed my visits with Mr and Mrs Clouatre and L.E. Mr Clouatre was such an insightful man with a charming wit and glowing personality. My sincere condolences to Mrs Clouatre, L.E. and family.

Brother Hackett

April 3, 2013

Mr. C, The skills you taught not only solved problems in Math, but all problems in life. You inspired us to face, not run. You were a positive force in my life, and always a good friend. I'm glad I stood up for you on the radio, and I'm sure God is compassionate enough not to require neckties!! Lol. Thank you

Roy Robison

April 3, 2013

I've heard it said that a teacher touches the mind, while an educator touches the soul. Thx Mr. Clouarte for being a great educator!

Felix Olivier

April 3, 2013

I was saddened to learn of Mr. Clouatre's passing. Although he demanded perfection from his students, I never had a teacher who cared more about his students than Mr. Clouatre. When I was a freshman at Catholic High, my bus stop was on his route to school, and he would always stop to give me a ride. Great memories of a great man, rest in peace Mr. Clouatre, and thank you for the ride. Andre C. Broussard, Jr.

Andre Broussard, Jr.

April 3, 2013

One week into 8th grade in 1975 at CHS I had the class' first lollipop. He called me Pil, and was kind to me throughout. In 1999 at my wife's funeral as I was deep in grief a man I had not seen or spoken to in 20 years came up to me and kissed me on the forehead. His selfless acts of kindness are an inspiration to me. My prayers and thoughts are with the family.

Paul Webb

April 3, 2013

Lou you touched so many people. Including me. There will always be a place in my heart for you. You were my mentor which enabled me to graduate CHS. You may be gone but I will never forget you.

David Verbois

April 3, 2013

Mr, Lou as a geat math teacher and oneofthe best shady grove ever had, thanks Mr. Lou. David Allen, Prairieville, Louisiana

April 3, 2013

In 1964 a college professor complimented me on my work in algebra class. It was because of me flunking algebra the first time in high school and Mr. Clouatre making me take it again the next year. Thank you Mr. Clouatre for teaching me so much. I will always have fond memories of being in your classes at Shady Grove.

Robert Dardenne

April 2, 2013

Next to my father, Lou Clouatre was the greatest influence in my life, as his student, later as a colleague at Catholic High and always as a friend. Lou, "cornbread are square!" Eternal love, dear man.

Jay Harmon

April 2, 2013

Lou Clou was without a doubt my favorite educator. Though my grades(which I earned) didn't reflect it, Mr. Cloutre taught me so much about life and the goodness of the human spirit. I enjoyed his humor(I set the bar low)-and loved the man. He will be missed and remembered by so many. The entire Clouatre family is in my prayers. May God bless you all.

Flint Virgets

April 2, 2013

Thank you Mr. Clouatre for being the great teacher and man that you were. You were the most influential teacher that I ever had. My heart and prayers go out to the family.

Brian Hutchinson

April 2, 2013

mr.Clouatre was the best math teacher at shady grove in the fifties may he rest in peace

richard smith

April 2, 2013

Mr. Clouatre touched many many lives, and I will never forget him. He was one of the few teachers that made a lasting impression on my life. I always think of him any time I hear a "Mr. Clouatre-like" joke. Sending thoughts and prayers to his family.

Sandy (Englert) Garver

April 2, 2013

Dear Verna Mae, I know your loss surpasses that of the rest of us, so I send my prayers and wishes for peace. Lou was so very special, a great teacher and friend. I know he is enjoying being reunited with his parents, my grandma, and so many others in paradise. Sending love your way.

Barbara Dwayer

April 2, 2013

He didn't just teach math, but he taught life lessons. You will be missed. Godspeed, Mr. Clouatre.

Beau Clark

April 2, 2013

Sheila (Brown) Davis

April 2, 2013

Mr. Clouatre was the best math teacher I've ever had. He was also a great friend to our family over the years. I will miss him stopping by to see me at work and at my parents' house. I will miss his jokes and his kindness. He was such a good man. My prayers and deepest condolences are with you, Verna. May you rest in peace, Mr. Clouatre. You are greatly loved and missed!

Shannon Baldridge

April 2, 2013

Andre and family, We are so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. Our prayers and sympathies to you all. Much love.

Jean Foley Soileau and Nancy Foley

April 2, 2013

Words cannot express how much Mr. Clouatre meant to my family during our days in Maringouin and beyond.

Jeffrey M. Beamon

April 2, 2013

My prayers are with you his family. I came to know Mr. Louis through Christ the King Church went he volunteer to help in the offertory counting committee. I will always remember him for his kindness, his family stories, his love for his family. May God give you the strength.

Jenny Moore

April 2, 2013

Lou was one of my most memorable teachers -- 3 outstanding math classes at CHS -- a great wit and a true friend. My condolences to Verna and the family, but Lou will live on in our memory.

Hal Odom Jr

April 2, 2013

Mr. Clouatre was such a wonderful man and teacher. I so enjoyed his class and daily jokes. He will be missed.

Jason Englert

April 1, 2013

Katie Glaser Martin

April 1, 2013

My message can only say that Louis was a wonderful person . He taught my husband,Wayne, and I probably know every story about
this gentle man as a teacher. He was a friend over many years of telephone conversations......... His support got me through Vietnam
War times while I feared for the life of my husband , through the loss of our daughter and lastly as a constant friend through the cancer diagnosis and recovery of my dear husband. I will miss those sincere conversations and will be forever grateful to have had the pleasure of his Christian friendship. Wayne and I will keep all of you in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless.

April 1, 2013

Mr. Clouatre was one of my favorite teachers at Bishop Sullivan. I still quote him at times. "This isn't Burger King! You can't have it your way!" What a great math teacher! He will be missed! Praying for his family!

Heather Gutierrez Juneau

April 1, 2013

It's not often that a man can touch so many lives in such a positive way... much less a math teacher! The world is a little less without you Mr. Clouatre. We'll miss you.

Laurel (Huber) Chiaramonte

April 1, 2013

My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Mr. Clouatre was such a wonderful teacher and a fine man. His method of teaching was beyond compare. He was a role model, a motivator, and a kind- hearted man. His impression on my life will last forever.

Angela Gibbs Montalbano

April 1, 2013

So sorry to hear about Mr. Clouatre's death. He was a wonderful teacher. I truly enjoyed his math class at Bishop. Praying for his family.

Carrie-Anne Carpenter

April 1, 2013

I had the honor of teaching with Lou at Bishop Sullivan. He was an extemely supportive mentor and friend and a phenomenal teacher who touched the lives of countless students. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Shannon Hudson

April 1, 2013

My condolences to the family. I'm so sorry to hear of Mr. Lou's passing. He was always so delightful every time I saw him. May he rest in the Arms of God.

Cass Felps

April 1, 2013

The stories of success in the lives of so many people that graduated from Shady Grove High School can no doubt be attributed to having a teacher like Mr. Clouatre. Our prayers for the family and a special Thank You to God for having him in our lives.

Wayne Graffia

April 1, 2013

Lou was a man who loved his God, his family and enjoyed his life's work as a teacher. He lived the "Gospel Message" and encouraged others to do the same. He will be missed.

Alan Powers

April 1, 2013

Mr. Clouatre was the best teacher I ever had. He inspired so many of us and taught us more than just math in the years that I had him.

Former Bishop Sullivan student

April 1, 2013

My prayers to Verna and others in the family. I have such wonderful memories of our talks at St. Joseph Cathedral when I became a member. Love and Blessings.

Sylvia Winder

April 1, 2013

We will miss Lou's service, charity, and certainly his awesome humor. Love and prayers to Verna and all those who loved and esteemed Lou.

Tommy Darensbourg

April 1, 2013

Mr. Clouatre was the best math teacher I ever had, and he made learning enjoyable. He had a great sense of humor. He will be missed. Prayers for the family.

Bart Ackermann, Sr.

April 1, 2013

I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Clouatre's passing. He is one of the most influential people in my life, and probably the only person who could have taught me Algebra 2. I was fortunate to see him recently and visit briefly,and his uplifting spirit and love of life hadn't changed a bit.

Mike Atkinson

April 1, 2013

He was a wonderful member of the ST. Joseph Cathedral family and we will miss him greatly. Bobbie Carey

Bobbie Carey

April 1, 2013

Dear Lou Knew you well as we were class mates. I am sorry for the family of Louis.

Coleman Montero

April 1, 2013

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