Chief Dwaynne A. Ardeneaux

A resident of Pine Grove, LA, passed away on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge, LA. He was born May 19, 1966 in Marrero, LA and was 59 years of age.

He is survived by his wife, Katherine LaPorte Ardeneaux; mother, Dorateel B. Ardeneaux; sister, Julie Ardeneaux; goddaughter, Brandi G. Gilboy; niece, Angelina M. Wahl; mother-in-law, Catherine O. LaPorte, sister-in-law, Toni L. Wahl; brother-in-law, Raymond Wahl; and great-nephew, Tony Gilboy. He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence J. Ardeneaux.

Chief Dwaynne Ardeneaux has dedicated over two decades of service to the St. George Fire Department, where he began his career in 1999 as a Firefighter/Operator. Over the course of 26 years, he rose through the ranks to serve as the Chief of the Fire Prevention Bureau.

Chief Ardeneaux held a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science from Louisiana State University and an Associate's Degree in Fire Science from LSU Eunice. His academic background was complemented by practical and technical experience, including prior work in a laboratory testing fuel oils for flash point, fire point, and flame points, giving him a unique perspective on fire investigations.

Throughout his career, Chief Ardeneaux contributed extensively to specialized response teams. He served 18 years on the St. George Rescue Team and was also a member of the Louisiana State Urban Search and Rescue (USA&R) Team. Additionally, he was a certified Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technician (NREMT).

In 2020, Chief Ardeneaux completed the C.A.R.T.A. P.O.S.T. Academy and held dual Law Enforcement Commissions with the St. George Fire Department for Fire Investigations and with the East Baton Rouge Sheriff's Office. These roles highlighted his dedication to both fire safety and law enforcement collaboration.

Beyond his operational and investigative work, Chief Ardeneaux played an important role in the growth of the newly established City of St. George by authoring city ordinances that enhance public safety and strengthen community protection.

With a career marked by leadership, technical expertise, and community service, Chief Dwaynne Ardeneaux guided the St. George Fire Prevention Bureau with professionalism and commitment.

Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 8:15AM until 10:40AM on Saturday, February 28, 2026. A Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate his life will follow at 11:00AM at St. Helena Catholic Church, 122 S. First Street, Amite, LA. Services conducted by Fr. Reuben Dykes. Interment will be in St. Joseph Abbey Cemetery, 75376 River Rd., Covington, LA 70435. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Mass intentions would be appreciated in lieu of flowers.