Waldon Joseph Aucoin

Waldon “Don” Joseph Aucoin passed away peacefully on Friday, January 2, 2026, at the age of 86. Born in Soileau, Louisiana, Don spent much of his life in Texas and Colorado, building friendships, faith, and family ties before returning to his home state of Louisiana in 2010. We rest assured knowing he is with the Lord, sitting on a porch swing, just a-swingin’.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Janice, with whom he shared 62 years of partnership; their daughter, Melinda Parker, and son‑in‑law, Phillip Parker; six grandchildren—Malissa “Missy” Gore, Joseph “Joey” Gore, Magen Gore, Kaitlyn Parker, Logan Parker, and Weston Parker—and numerous nieces and nephews. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Themie and Elvina Aucoin; his sisters, Bernadine Peace and Lila Delafosse; and his beloved daughter, Malissa Anne Aucoin Gore.

Don and Janice met as young adults in Texas and their connection grew quickly, and their marriage became the foundation for a life filled with shared experiences, adventures, and a deep love for one another. Their life together spanned more than six decades and is a testament to their unwavering commitment and mutual support.

Raised in a Cajun household where English was his second language, Don approached life with determination and pure stubbornness. He graduated from St. Edmonds Catholic School in Eunice, LA, served three years in the U.S. Army, and later earned an accounting degree from Lamar University. While attending night school, he worked filling Havoline bottles on Texaco’s assembly line – an early step in what became a 41-year career as a loyal and dedicated accountant for the Texaco Pipeline division.

Faith was central to Don’s life. At St. Joseph’s Cathedral, he was an active member of the Knights of Columbus Council #13632 and achieving 4th Degree standing. He served on the Coffee and Donut Committee greeting parishoners with donuts, coffee and conversation, and supported new members through the RCIA program. He also enjoyed lending his time and energy to St. Joseph’s Day, Grands Day, the Special Olympics and countless other parish events, especially those involving food.

Don was happiest when he was busy. He took great pride in helping build the homes his family lived in—two in Texas, one in Louisiana, and one in Colorado—and he was always tackling a new project, whether in the yard or around the house. A devoted sports fan, he spent many weekends at ball fields cheering on his girls or bundled up watching his beloved “Donkeys” play at Mile High. While he loved football, LSU baseball held a special place in his heart—mostly for the tailgating, food, and fellowship.

After retiring from Texaco, Don discovered a true joy in traveling the country in his RV with Janice by his side. He never met a stranger and loved swapping stories with fellow RVers. Don also loved card games and never turned down a game of Bourree’.

Don’s legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the many people whose lives he touched with his generosity, humor, and steady presence. The family would like to thank Landmark Nursing Home, Pinnacle Hospice and Chris Coleman for their loving care.

A celebration of Don’s life will be held on January 16, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, 401 Main Street in Baton Rouge. Visitation will begin at 8:30 a.m., followed by a funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. Interment will take place afterward at Resthaven Gardens of Memory, 11817 Jefferson Highway in Baton Rouge.