Cleve Joseph "C.J." Duplechain

Cleve Joseph “C.J.” Duplechain, 71, of Lake Charles passed away at 5:31 AM on Sunday, December 14, 2025 in a local hospice facility.

Born on August 10, 1954, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, Mr. Duplechain lived his entire life in this community that he loved so dearly. A proud graduate of St. Louis High School, he went on to receive his Batchelor of Science Degree in nursing from Northwestern State University.

A skilled and compassionate nurse, Mr. Duplechain worked in critical care units at several local hospitals, dedicating his professional life to the well-being of his patients. He most recently worked at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, but his career also included time as a traveling nurse, where he had the privilege of working in various locations across the country. He was a member of both St. Margaret Catholic Church and The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.

Mr. Duplechain was a passionate member of the SCCA car club and loved nothing more than the thrill of racing. An accomplished water skier and an avid mechanic by hobby, he had a natural gift for fixing things and a love for all things related to motorsports. His hands were often busy, whether he was working on a car or helping a friend with a project. A loving father, he was a dedicated coach to his sons, helping them develop their skills and passion for soccer.

Mr. Duplechain was more than just a skilled professional; he was a wonderful person—kind, caring, and always willing to lend a hand. His legacy of love, kindness, and selflessness will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 41 years, Lee Anna Duplechain; sons, Ryan Duplechain (Heather) and Cory Duplechain (Kyrie); a sister, Carolyn Gayle (William “Buddy”); and his beloved grandchildren, Salvador Joseph, Magnolia Jean, and Amelia Rae Duplechain.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rose and Cleve Joseph Duplechain, Sr. and a sister, Diana Theriot.

A funeral mass will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home of Lake Charles. Father Michael Beverung will officiate. Inurnment will be in Consolata Cemetery at a later date. Visitation will begin on Monday from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM with a rosary being recited at 6:00 PM. Visitation will continue on Tuesday from 8:00 AM until leaving for the church at 9:30 AM.