Gary Leroy IsRalson

A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 2:00 pm until 5:30 pm at Fountain Memorial Funeral Home in Lafayette, LA for Gary Leroy IsRalson, 83. He passed away unexpectedly on January 5, 2026, at his daughter's home in Lafayette, LA.

A Time of Remembrance will be observed at Fountain Memorial Funeral Home in Lafayette on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 5:30 pm until 6:00 pm. Presiding over the Time of Remembrance is Chloe Abbott. Readers are Olivia Lerille and Gwen Hasling. Steven Hasling will share a few words as a tribute to Gary.

Inurnment will follow at a later date. A mass and visitation will be held at St. Albert Catholic Church, St. Albert, Canada at a later date.

Gary Leroy IsRalson, was born September 20, 1942, in Outlook, Canada. He started his career in banking in the 1960s. Gary worked as Bank Manager for numerous years. Through his career he met many friends and his soulmate who would become his wife, Dianne. Gary's warm and embracing personality resulted in him making lifelong friends which he cherished. Gary was a parishioner of St. Albert Catholic Church, St. Albert, Canada where he also served as a greeter.

Gary had a zest for life, living to the fullest. He was a man of faith, always had a smile, and his spirit was one of positivity. Gary had a great sense of humor and was quick to laugh. He was a true gentleman. Many have referred to him as their hero. His smile never faded even after being diagnosed with Inclusion Body Myositis. Later in life this disorder restricted his mobility requiring the use of a power chair but it never took away his authentic smile or limited his social activities. After retiring, he returned to work part time at Home Depot giving him the opportunity to interact with people and distract him from his own limitations.

Gary most enjoyed spending time with family, friends, and watching hockey. His favorite hockey team was the Edmonton Oilers. Gary and Dianne were adventurous and didn't allow any limitations to hinder them. They spent their winters in Louisiana enjoying times with Denise and the friends they cultivated over the years. While visiting Louisiana, they could be found participating in Mardi Gras events and local festivals. Family and friends meant everything to Gary and he nurtured these relationships. He leaves a legacy of love and will be deeply missed.

Gary is survived by his two daughters, Denise Lynne IsRalson, DVM, of Lafayette and Carmen Michelle Esch, MSW and her husband, David, of Calgary, Canada; his two brothers, Laurie IsRalson and his wife, Daphne, of Alberta, Canada and Earle IsRalson, of Saskatchewan, Canada and his grandson, Connor Esch, of Calgary, Canada.

The family would like to thank Carmen Nault, St. Albert, Canada for her friendship and loving support of our Dad over the last several years.

He was preceded in death by his soulmate and wife, Dianne IsRalson; his parents, Roy Edward and Clara Strom IsRalson. Gary is also survived by his precious furry companion, Casey who gave Gary much love and support.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Gary's name to The Myositis Association, www.myositis.org or by mail: TMA, 9950 Columbia Gateway Drive Suite 370, Columbia, MD 21046.

Following the service, a reception will be held at the home of Mark and Jacquie Lerille, 802 Greenbriar Rd. 70503.

Online obituary and guest book may be viewed at www.fountainmemorialfuneralhome.com.

Fountain Memorial Funeral Home and Cemetery, 1010 Pandora St. 337-981-7098 is in charge of arrangements.