FONTENOT, Russell James Major (USA-Ret.) Major Russell James Fontenot (USA-Ret), resident of Cedar Park, Texas departed from this life on March 21, 2018 after a two-year battle with cancer. Russell was born in Jennings, Louisiana, to Isaac J. and Helen Fontenot (n?e Mallette) in 1940; he graduated from Landry High School in Lake Charles, and earned both a B.A. and J.D. from Louisiana State University. Receiving a commission through ROTC, he chose the life of a career soldier, serving as an officer in various capacities including infantry, airborne, and ultimately the JAG Corps. While stationed at Fort Knox, Russell met and on July 31, 1965 married Martha Leonard, daughter of George and Mattie Leonard (n?e Prather) of Vine Grove Kentucky. Their life together was briefly interrupted when then Captain Fontenot served a tour of duty in Vietnam from 1971-72, earning, among other decorations, a Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, and a Bronze Star. Promoted to the rank of major in 1976, he continued to serve with distinction, specializing in such diverse fields as criminal law, law of war, torts, and medical malpractice. After a total of 23 years he retired from active duty in 1989, then returned to work for the Army as a civilian attorney at William Beaumont Army Medical Center (Fort Bliss, TX). He retired to private life in 2006, relocating with his family to Cedar Park. In addition to his military career, Russell was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He enjoyed travelling and camping with his family, reading voluminously, and researching a wide variety of topics, particularly family history. In 2015 he was inducted into the Sons of the American Revolution (Alexander Hamilton Chapter 66). He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Martha; daughter, Tracey Fontenot; daughter, Jolie Fontenot; son, David Fontenot; son, Corey Fontenot and wife Donna; and grandchildren, Katrina, Isaac, and Cora. Funeral services will take place at St. Margaret and Mary Catholic Church in Cedar Park on Wednesday, March 28 at 10:30 A.M. Burial will follow at Central Texas State Veterans' Cemetery at Killeen, TX with full military honors. For those desiring, you may also access the online guest registry and obituary at www.wcfish.com.

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Published by Austin American-Statesman on Mar. 25, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Russell Fontenot

Sponsored by Weed Corley Fish Funeral Homes and Cremation Services - Leander/Cedar Park.

17 Entries

Pamela Morphew

June 7, 2018

My condolence and deep sympathy to Martha, children and grandchildren.

Eileen Day

April 22, 2018

My sincere & belated sympathy as Mary Lee thought she saw a hint about Russell's death on Facebook via Jolie. I do not do Facebook much; Raymond does but is not a friend on your sight. At the same time we were grieving the sudden death of Raymond's brother who died in Bradenton,Fl & we were in Indy March 28-29 for visitation & funeral. On March 29th I had another abscess removed from the incision of my reverse shoulder surgery. So sorry I didn't know to offer you our deepest sympathy. Have slow to recover as an antibiotic caused me many side effects which I am only now getting over. Much love, Eileen & Raymond
Did you have any memorial requests for Russell? This

April 10, 2018

My prayers to all the family and friends of this wonderful man. Russ helped me immensely when I first started in the Army Medical Command. He was always willing to provide excellent guidance and had a wonderful sense of humor. Sincerely, Scott Schuler, Attorney, Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, TX.

Maggie Jara

March 28, 2018

My deepest condolences. I recall Russ' gentle and caring nature. May he Rest In Peace and may his family find comfort.
Sincerely, Maggie Jara, USAO

John Paniszczyn

March 28, 2018

I worked with Russ for several years while he was with the WBMC Medical Claims/JAG Office and had the wonderful opportunity to try a case with him. Russ was always willing to go the extra mile, was devoted to public service and was always a pleasure to work with. Please accept my condolences for your profound loss for this true gentleman.
Sincerely,
John Paniszczyn, Chief, Civil Division, U.S. Attorney's Office.

Joan Stith

March 28, 2018

Love & Prayers to your family.

The Spathiphyllum Plant by FTD - BASKET INCLUDED

Linda Rice

Sent Flowers

Joe Prather

March 27, 2018

Martha and Family, We are praying for God's richest blessings on you as you cope with your tremendous loss. From the first time I came to know Russ, I could readily tell that he was a man of great ability and of great character. May he rest in peace.

FRED & LOUISE JONES

March 27, 2018

We were truly blessed to have known Russ while he was on this earth. We wish him well as he goes on to his heavenly reward.

a loved one

Sent Flowers

Alfredo Campos

March 26, 2018

Russ touched others with his kindness, smile and most of all his booming laughter. I miss him.

Mark Sposato

March 26, 2018

Deepest condolences from Russ's friends at William Beaumont Army Medical Center. His legacy is the standard of professionalism he established in the Office of the Center Judge Advocate.

Kristie Martin

March 26, 2018

Dear Fontenot Family,

My family is saddened to learn of his passing. He was an outstanding individual and will be sorely missed, yet never forgotten. Our prayers are with you during this difficult time. Hugs.

JD Dunlap

March 25, 2018

I only had the opportunity to know Major Fontenot briefly, but even in a very short time it was evident that he was everything an officer and a gentleman should be. I'm a poorer person for not being able to know him better. My thoughts and prayers truly go out to the whole family during this time of loss.

Phyllis Mitchell

March 25, 2018

Thoughts and prayers for you and your family! God be with you all!

Bobbie Machart

Sent Flowers

Beverly Kelly

March 25, 2018

With heartfelt condolences to the family of Russell Fontenot. What an amazing life he lived! His legacy will continue to live on through the members of his family. Praying for God's abundant peace and comfort at this time of loss.

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