Leonard "Ted" Fowler

 

MAJ (R) Leonard "Ted" Fowler, a cherished member of the Natchitoches community, peacefully departed this world on Saturday, December 2, 2023, surrounded by his loving family at Natchitoches Regional Medical Center.

A native of Natchitoches Parish, Ted's roots ran deep in the community. He attended Marthaville Elementary, NSU Lab Schools, and Natchitoches High School before graduating from Northwestern State College (now University) in January 1968. Commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army Field Artillery, Ted was a Distinguished Military Graduate, showcasing his commitment to excellence.

Ted's military journey led him to Ft. Sill, OK, and later to the Republic of Vietnam from July 1970 to July 1971, where he displayed unwavering dedication. His illustrious career earned him accolades, including the Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and National Defense Service Medal.

Transitioning to a new chapter, Ted dedicated over three decades to education, making a profound impact as a teacher and coach from 1974 to 2005. Fondly referred to as "Coach" Fowler, he touched the lives of countless students at various schools in Natchitoches Parish, leaving a lasting legacy.

Ted's community involvement extended beyond the classroom, demonstrating his passion for service. He served as President and Treasurer of the Natchitoches Association of Educators and contributed over 20 years as a Eucharistic Minister at the Immaculate Conception Basilica of Natchitoches.

A devoted volunteer, Ted actively participated in community events, including serving as Commander of Natchitoches J. C. Keyser VFW Post 1962 and as 2nd Vice Commander of Natchitoches American Legion, Gordon Peters, Post 10 for eight years.

He was preceded in death by his father, L.F. (Leonard Frank) Fowler, Ph.D.; mother, Mildred S. Fowler; and his sister, Marcie Lafargue.  He leaves his wife, Deanna Fowler and three sons:  Trey (Kyra) of Rowlett, TX; Bobby, and Blake (Kara) of Natchitoches as well as surrogate daughters: Lacy Guimaraes of Alexandria; Kim Hopper (Wade) of Baton Rouge; and Shatanna Desadier (Jason) of Natchitoches. He also leaves granddaughter, Leslie Fowler of Melissa, TX; and grandsons: Johnathon Fowler of Melissa, TX, Scott Fowler, Preston Fowler, Xander Fowler, and Dominick Fowler all of Natchitoches, LA.  Others that he leaves are nephew, Casey Miller (Gina) of Austin, TX, as well as nieces, Kelly Dickerson (Ramee) of Shreveport, LA, and Katie Procell (Christopher) of Stonewall, LA as well as sisters-in-law:  Beverly Nosewicz (Tom) of Aurora, CO and  Barb Dolezal of Big Springs, NE , plus more nephews:  Jeff Johnson (Jill) of Pueblo, CO,  Ricky Johnson of Centennial, CO, Kevin Dolezal of Brule, NE,  and Jason Dolezal (Amber) of Colorado Springs, CO.  He also had the following great nieces: Marcyann Dixon, Alexis Procell, Elliet Johnson, Kennedy Procell and Addison Procell plus great nephews:  Christian Procell, Hayden Procell, Henry Johnson, Jonah Johnson, Isaac Johnson, and Landon Miller.

The loss of Ted is deeply felt by those who knew him. Pallbearers, representing the strength of his legacy, include Leslie Fowler, Johnathon Fowler, Scott Fowler, Preston Fowler, Xander Fowler, and Dominick Fowler. Honorary pallbearers include friends and comrades who shared in his journey.

The family expresses profound gratitude to the dedicated medical professionals at Natchitoches Regional Medical Center and Hospice of Natchitoches for their unwavering care and support during Ted's final days.

Friends and well-wishers are invited to pay their respects at Blanchard St Denis Funeral Home on Thursday, December 7, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, followed by a small Memorial service from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The Rosary and Mass beginning at 9:30 will be held on Friday, December 8, at St. Anthony Catholic Church, with a reception featuring Military Honors at J. C. Keyser, VFW, Post 1962 Hall.

 Honorary Pallbearers: Fred Jackson, Dane Terrell, Travis Smith and Tony Jernigan 

 In lieu of floral donations, the family kindly requests memorials be made to the VFW, J. C. Keyser, Post 1962, in Ted's honor. Contributions can be mailed to P.O. Box 1427, Natchitoches, LA 71457, or made through Venmo @vfwpost1962 (phone number code for verification: 8951).