René Louis Dufrene

René Louis Dufrene passed away on Sunday, October 5, 2025 at age 61. He led a life of joy, diligence and faith. A gentleman in the truest form, René was loved and respected by his family, friends, colleagues and many more. Although his passing was unexpected and far too soon, he was surrounded by family in his final moments.

Hailing from the bayous of Lafitte, Louisiana, René was raised by his loving parents, Floyd and Dolores Dufrene. Always an academic, he was named Valedictorian of the Fisher High School class of 1982. He graduated from Louisiana State University with a degree in Mathematics before receiving a Masters from Southern Methodist University. René went on to have an illustrious career with numerous achievements, which include four patents, a global cloud computing company, creation of reconnaissance technology for the US military, and much admiration from his cohorts. René was a tremendous leader. More the quiet and thoughtful type, his aim was to uplift and empower those around him. Throughout his successes, he emphasized the importance of the relationships he built. Many of his colleagues became life-long friends. René retired in 2024, but his work was not yet complete. Selfless as ever, he spent much of his retirement taking care of his father, authoring children's books, and calling his beloved mother-in-law, Honey, every evening.

René met the love of his life, Laura, in April of 1989. They were married in 1991, a marriage that lasted 34 wonderful years. Their love story serves as a model for their two children, three (soon to be four) grandchildren, and many other friends and members of the community. While dedicated to his work, his most important job was that of a husband and father. René loved his children dearly. Despite his busy schedule, he never missed a recital, game, or tournament. He was a gifted storyteller and loved to write and tell stories for his children and grandchildren. Perhaps best known for his unique wit, he loved to make others laugh (and often pulled all the stops to do so). In recent years, he developed a passion for doubles tennis, largely sponsored by his wife, Laura. He was well-loved and well-respected in the Chandler's Landing tennis community. His presence at the net was undeniable, but he always was a gentleman first. This past year, he kick-started his long-distance running career. He completed a half marathon in November 2024, which was his proudest achievement on the pavement. After scoring a podium finish in his most recent 5k, René boasted that he was the "second fastest old man in Heath!" Whatever the endeavor, his fire for life shone brightly for all to see. He loved deeply, laughed loudly, and selflessly sacrificed for his friends and family. His legacy is unquestioned. His faith was unshaken. He will forever be in our hearts.

René was earnest, yet humorous. Distinguished, yet humble. He knew his purpose was to glorify God and did so until his final breath. His kind heart and gentle spirit live on through his children and grandchildren. René lost his battle to pancreatic cancer, but was victorious in Christ. He was a warrior to the end.

René was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd Louis Dufrene and Dolores Estevez Dufrene. He is survived by his wife, Laura Lea Dufrene, mother-in-law, Rita Kay Thomason, daughter Stefanie Lynn Huber (Trevor), son Mason Louis Dufrene (Abigail) and his grandchildren Addison, Hartley and Ty Huber. He is also survived by his siblings Michael David Dufrene (Dee De) and Donna Lynn Boudreaux (George).

A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2025 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at Rest Haven Funeral Home, located at 2500 TX-66, Rockwall, TX 75087. A funeral service will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025 at 11:00am at Lake Pointe Church - Pier 419, located at 701 E Interstate 30, Rockwall, TX 75087.