Robert Dean Fournerat

Robert Dean Fournerat, born on November 26, 1958, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, passed away on August 2, 2025. He was the son of Ison Fournerat and Helen Cagle. Growing up in Irving, Texas, Robert was a bright student who graduated from Irving High School before pursuing higher education at the University of Texas at Dallas, where he earned both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Computer Science.

Robert's professional journey was marked by a dedication to teaching and innovation. He shared his expertise as an instructor of Unix classes at the University of Dallas and contributed significantly to the tech industry through software development roles at notable companies such as Electrospace, Suite Software, and Sprint. His entrepreneurial spirit also led him to establish his own Internet Service Provider,Netin.com. Notably, Robert held a patent for a recoil reduction device, which was sold through Calibrated Tech. He further showcased his leadership in technology as an IT manager at Debra J Fournerat, PC.

A man of many passions, Robert was not only devoted to his career but also embraced a multitude of hobbies. He had a black belt in Kenpo Karate. He found joy in motorcycle riding and racing, was an enthusiastic private pilot, and enjoyed biking, boating, water skiing, and participating in water volleyball. His creative pursuits included audiophile and amplifier design, 3D printing, and drones, along with a keen interest in trap shooting. His passion for trap shooting led him to create and patent a recoil reduction device to give sports shooters a competitive advantage in tournaments.

In life, Robert was deeply connected to his family and community. He married Debra Fournerat on March 21, 1997, sharing a lifelong partnership filled with love and respect. Robert is survived by his beloved wife, Debra Fournerat; his mother, Helen Cagle; and his brothers, Gary Fournerat and Wayne Fournerat. He also leaves behind his nephews, Jason Fournerat, Gary Fournerat Jr., Devin Fournerat, and Christopher Nichols and his niece Vicki Franklin.

Robert's legacy is one of compassion and support; his family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to the friends and family who provided assistance during his last challenging months, particularly to Brenda and Phil Overton, Glenda Barnett, Joe and Beth Smith, and Keith and Janet Glenn.

Robert Dean Fournerat will be remembered for his lasting contributions, both professionally and personally, and for the warmth he shared with those around him. He is preceded in death by his father, Ison Fournerat, and his sister, Diana Fournerat. His remarkable spirit will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

To honor Robert's wishes, we are having a tree planted at Bird's Fort Trail Park in Irving this fall. We will have a memorial at the fellowship hall of Meadowbrook Baptist Church at 11am, Saturday, November 1st, followed by a dedication of the tree at Bird's Fort Trail Park.