Hiram Eldridge DuRousseau, 79, of Lake Charles, La., passed away at 1:43 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023.
Hiram was born in Frilot Cove, La., on Feb. 23, 1943, to sharecroppers Eldridge and Grace DuRousseau. The eldest of six siblings, his days on the farm started at a very early age. As a child, Hiram was put in charge of running the tractor to prepare the crops. Too small to reach the pedals or see above the steering wheel, Hiram would sit as close to the edge of the seat to reach the pedals and peek through the steering wheel as he established the season’s crops. Straight and even planting rows were a requirement and not optional, leading to long days and exhaustive repetition. Experiences like this were frequent while farming for the family, but these tough lessons instilled an attention to detail, strict work ethic and a strive for perfection that would remain and assist Hiram in his later endeavors. Hiram spent season after season leading his siblings as they prepared the land for cotton, corn, sweet potatoes, and okra. As a teen, his strong dislike for being idle would lead him to work for neighboring farms when the family farm was not ready for harvest. After graduation, Hiram decided to leave the family farm in search of a career and independence unavailable in Frilot Cove. Hiram moved to California where he was hired by CIP, California Industrial Products as a millwright. A hard worker and quick learner, he moved up the ranks in a short time earning the title of Millwright Foreman. The title and job security were short-lived as Hiram was drafted by the United States Army in 1967 during the Vietnam War. Hiram served in the Army from 1967 – 1969 earning many badges including the Sharpshooter M14 Rifle badge. After honorable discharge, Hiram left California and returned to his home state, Louisiana.
A few months after returning home, Hiram crossed paths with the love of his life, Jeanette Biagas and they were married on Sept. 5, 1971.
As a newlywed again in search of a career, Hiram went to work for Firestone Polymers in Sulphur, La. Hiram spent the next 28 years at Firestone before being forced to take early retirement due to his health. Over his career spanning from forklift operator to process coordinator, he encouraged and helped many start their careers in the refinery industry.
The stability and security offered through his employment at Firestone Polymers would have been enough for most, but not Hiram. He had a strong desire to own a business. In 1972, Hiram purchased a tractor, bushhog and boxblade and pursued his dream of owning a business. He started off cutting grass and grading dirt for neighbors, friends and associates while still working shiftwork at Firestone.
Honesty, integrity, and hard work paid off with the company, HD Truck & Tractor, LLC, growing beyond his expectations.
Known by many as “Mr. H.”, he took the time to get to know his employees and those he encountered through work on a personal level. He took everyone under his wing, sharing his extensive knowledge and wisdom. He had no secrets to success and contributed everything to hard work, trustworthiness and reliability. Hiram remained the head of the company in a respectful capacity until his death.
Hiram enjoyed going to NASCAR races and hunting with his sons, Houston Astros games with his daughters, reading the newspaper and rummaging through all the local auction brochures. He always had a cutout from a magazine or newspaper for his children and the coloring pages for his grandchildren. His favorite pastime was spending time on his farm with his herd of cattle all of which he named.
Nothing meant more to Hiram than his 13 grandchildren. He was present for every baptism, school event, birthday party and daily tractor ride.
Hiram will be missed beyond words. He will be remembered for his funny stories, his words of wisdom, his unfailing work ethic, his generous smile and his willingness to help anyone at any time.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Eldridge and Grace Auzenne DuRousseau; brother, Gary DuRousseau Sr.; sister-in-law, Jeanne DuRousseau.
His memory will be cherished and kept alive by his devoted and loving wife of 51 years, Jeanette Biagas DuRousseau; children Hiram II (Stephanie), Keith (Samantha), Justin (Nicoleta), Jena (Darren), and Jalin; grandchildren, Camdyn, Hiram III, Elle, Brayden, Isla, Veda, Karter, Bria, Andi, Jax, Rhyan, Leah and Pearce; brothers Clay (Dee-Dee), Al (Jeanne); sisters, Linda (Allen), and Wanda (Robert), and a host of nieces and nephews.
A Requiem Mass will be held at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Lake Charles at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023, under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home. Canon Jean Marie Moreau will officiate. Burial will take place in Consolata Cemetery following the service. Visitation will be held at Johnson Funeral Home on Wednesday from 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. with a rosary being recited at 11 a.m.
The family would like to thank Caring Hands, Ms. Doretha Jackson and Ms. Belinda Touchet for the excellent care and compassion provided.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to New Life Counseling 631 E School Street Lake Charles, LA 70607.
Words of comfort to the family may be expressed at www.johnsonfuneralhome.net.