Luke Wayne Picard, Sr., 68, of Lake Charles died on Saturday, April 23, 2011 in a local hospital.

Mr. Picard was born on March 18, 1943 in Eunice, LA. He lived most of his life in the Lake Charles area. Mr. Picard proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Pickaway. He began his working career as an automotive painter and later became a locksmith before finding his passion in carpentry. Mr. Picard was a very meticulous carpenter who was known for his craftsmanship. He was a devoted and long time servant of the Catholic Diocese of Lake Charles.

Anyone who met Luke knew he was a very unique and special man. He left everlasting impressions on countless people. One of his most cherished joys was dressing as Santa Claus for various community organizations.

Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of nearly 49 years, Leah Dufault Picard of Lake Charles; two sons, Luke Wayne Picard, Jr. and wife Katrina, Kyle Willis Picard and wife Brandy all of Moss Bluff; one daughter, Lesa Picard Crochet and husband, Dennis of Lake Charles; a brother, Jack Picard and wife Patty of Westlake; and his ten grandchildren, with whom he loved spending time with and were a constant joy in his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Evelyn and Willis Picard; and four sisters, Loretta, Isabell, Velma, and Gloria.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, April 27, 2011 from 5:00 PM until 9:00 PM in Johnson Funeral Home, with a scripture service and rosary being held at 6:30 PM. The Rev. Don Perraro will deliver the eulogy. Visitation will continue on Thursday at 10:00 AM in St. Henry Catholic Church until the time of the funeral services at 3:00 PM. The Rev. Danny Torres will officiate. Burial will be in Highland Memory Garden Cemetery under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home