Carl William Scherer, Jr.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for Lt. Col. Carl William Scherer Jr., USAF Ret. at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at St. Landry Catholic Church in Opelousas, LA. Rev. Father Neil Pettit will celebrate the Mass. Rite of Committal and interment will follow at Holy Sepulcher Mausoleum in Opelousas. Musical selections will be performed by Abigail Caffery.

Lt. Col. Carl William Scherer Jr., USAF Ret. of Youngsville, Louisiana, passed away peacefully at his residence on August 30, 2025, at the age of 90 surrounded by loved ones. Born on March 25, 1935, in Berwick, Louisiana, Carl's life was marked by dedication, service, and a profound love for his country and family. 

After graduating from Bolton High School in Alexandria, LA, he furthered his education by receiving a BS from Southwestern Louisiana Industrial Institute and a MBA from Arizona State University. He met and married the love of his life, Mary, in 1957. He then pursued a career in the Air Force which lasted over 22 years. For the past 50 years, he resided in Kenner, Baton Rouge and most recently in Youngsville, LA. Carl cherished the outdoors and had a passion for fishing. He was also a devoted fan of LSU football and baseball showcasing his school spirit and love of the game. GEAUX TIGERS! 

Carl is remembered not only for his distinguished career and accomplishments but for his warm and engaging personality. He developed lasting relationships and left a significant impact on those who had the honor of knowing him. 

He is survived by son, Steven J. Scherer and wife Donna; son, Carl W. Scherer III MD and wife, Mary; son, Gregory M. Scherer and wife, Denise; daughter, Heidi L. Scherer; and son, Eric E. Scherer; and sister, Carlene Vige’. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren, Katy Scherer, Jonathan Scherer, Steven Scherer Jr., Alexa Scherer, Meagan Scherer, Sydney Scherer, Cassidy Scherer, Christian Scherer, Holden DeBord, Evan Scherer, and Conner Scherer; and a host of nieces and his nephews: Andre Vige’ and wife, Stephanie; Beau Vige’ and wife, Nicole; Monique O’Toole and husband, Mat; Terry Scherer, Mark Scherer, and Selwyn Scherer and wife, Teri. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Jane Guillory Scherer; his parents, Carl William Scherer Sr. and Ellen Fae Gilmore Scherer; brother, August George Scherer; and grandson, Carl William Scherer IV. 

Pallbearers will be his grandsons: Jonathan Scherer, Steven Scherer Jr., Christian Scherer, Holden DeBord, Evan Scherer, and Conner Scherer. 

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in the Skip Montet Memorial Chapel at Lafond Ardoin Funeral Home in Opelousas. A Rosary service will be held on Friday evening at 6:00 p.m. in the funeral home led by Deacon Bill Pollingue. Visitation will continue Saturday from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. in the funeral home. A Eulogy service will be held at 10:00 a.m. 

Lt. Col. Carl William Scherer Jr., USAR Ret. leaves behind a legacy of honor and dedication, one that will continue to inspire those who knew him. His memory will be cherished by many, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were touched by his kindness and spirit. 

Lafond-Ardoin Funeral Home, 2845 South Union Street, Opelousas, LA 70570, (337-942-2638) has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.