Martin J. Fontenot, 77, of Orange, Texas, passed away on February 6, 2017, at his home.
A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 11, 2017, at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Orange.
Born in Port Arthur, Texas, on October 21, 1940, Martin was the son of Isaac and Ruby Fontenot. Martin was a veteran of the United States Air Force who served his country for 20 years before retiring. He graduated from Bridge City High School in 1959. Martin enjoyed playing pool, duck hunting, playing sports, and was a Dallas Cowboy fan. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brothers, William Fontenot and Alton Fontenot.
He is survived by his daughter, Pamela Fontenot, of Arizona; siblings, Betty Fruge and husband Elgie, of Mauriceville, Joyce Durda and husband Paul, of Euclid, OH, Emery Fontenot and wife Rose, of Pasco, WA, and Janice Binagia and husband Kevin, of Houston; along with his sister-in-law, Laura Fontenot.
Condolences
Norma Carmona
February 21, 2017
My heartfelt condolences go out to MJ's family, especially to Emery. MJ was the best man at our wedding and he always held a special place in my heart. He was very much to himself, but once he got to talking, he always had some interesting facts/stories to share. Norma
Pamela Fontenot
February 9, 2017
I remember watching The Price Is Right in Mawmaw and Pawpaw's living room, angling to try to get a good blast from the fan in the midst of a hot and humid Bridge City summer.
I remember standing in that home's front yard with my finger pointed straight to the sun hoping a mosquito hawk would land on it.
I remember going to collect live crabs with Dad for my favorite Texas dish: Mawmaw's gumbo. None has ever been so good since.
I remember sitting with Dad in a modest apartment, watching "The Island" and if memory serves, my cousin Robin was with us. I often remember that night when I'm home, watching a movie, eating popcorn, and I smile while thinking it still seems crazy to put mustard on it.
I remember visiting further north one summer, and winning a contest - was it a water balloon toss? - with my cousin Michael. I chose a Rolling Stones 45 record with "Miss You" on it. I'd never won anything before. I was so proud, I think Dad was, too. I still have that 45.
I remember him teaching me to bowl, and many years later, I'd belong to two first place teams. Bowling always reminds me of Dad. He taught me how to take 7 steps. Others later tried to convert me to 5, but I never relented, because Daddy taught me it was 7.
I remember a Fontenot family reunion at a roller skating rink; I'd never seen so many Fontenots in one place!
I remember watching boxing with Dad in his living room at 101 East Oregon St.. I'd encourage him to punch a pillow or cushion I was holding to my chest. I was proud of his Golden Gloves stories. Heck, I even tried boxing once or twice. Dad kept all of that particular talent to himself, but I tried it to relate to his younger self. I'm glad I did.
I remember AstroWorld and the Rhinestone Cowboy - more that Dad loved it than the movie itself. I think of him every time I hear "It's A Heartache" by Bonnie Tyler.
I remember a black corduroy cowboy hat, with fancy feathers in the hat band. I had to stuff the inner band with paper - I still have a tiny skull. I loved that hat and wore it out.
There are so many more memories I have with Dad, because of Dad, and I'm so very grateful for them.
I remember watching "The Blob" - the old one with Steve McQueen - I bet we were staying at Fischers, in Illinois. I was so young. I got scared toward the end, I was afraid to sleep; Dad taught me The Lord's Prayer that night and I've never forgotten it.
Dad, now you have lain down to sleep, and I know your Lord keeps you. And with my memories, I, too, shall keep you.
Rest In Peace. I love you.
Anonymous
February 8, 2017
Strength & Solace Spray was purchased for the family of Martin J. Fontenot.