John Michael “Mike” Fontenot, 75, of Lake Charles, passed away on Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023 in the comfort of his home surrounded by his family. 

Mike was a native of Ville Platte, but traveled the world with his career Air Force family and was educated in many different states. Once he completed his high school education, Mike took on his father’s footsteps and likewise, honorably and faithfully, served our country in the United States Air Force. While stationed in Las Vegas, he caught the eye of a young lady from Utah, Susan Gonzales. The two quickly fell in love and wed in Las Vegas, and recently celebrated 52 years of marriage. 

After his discharge from the United States Air Force, Mike relocated to Lake Charles, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree from McNeese State University. He was a salesman for Stine Lumber Company for many years and was very active with South Lake Charles Little League. He was also a big fan of McNeese, having tailgated before tailgating was a trend! He was a part of the Petro Chem alumni group of MSU. 

Mike also enjoyed hunting and fishing and was a great host to his friends and family with the catches from the water and birds from the sky. He enjoyed frying fish to making gumbo for all to enjoy!

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Malcom and Amy Aucoin Fontenot, and brother, Rick Fontenot. Those left to honor and cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 52 years, Susan Gonzales Fontenot; son, Adam Fontenot; sister, Jackie Dale Mazzullo (Paul); sister-in-law, Tonja Fontenot; brother-in-law, Tony Gonzales (Carman), as well as, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family of the heart. 

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the loving care and support expressed to them by the doctors, nurses and staff of Harbor Hospice.

As to Mike’s wishes, cremation has been entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home of Lake Charles. 

Words of comfort may be expressed to the family at www.johnsonfuneral home.net.