Gilbert J. Lege, 90, joined his beloved wife Elvira on June 20, 2024, in Groves, Texas. He was a lifelong resident of Groves and Port Arthur, Texas. Born on September 27, 1933, in Abbeville, Louisiana, Gilbert's life journey was one filled with remarkable experiences and meaningful connections.
Gilbert's career path led him to various places across the United States and Puerto Rico and Canada. His work as a Chromatography specialist allowed him to witness Ethylene plant startups in different locations before eventually retiring from the Texaco Ethylene unit in Port Arthur in 1994. Gilbert's dedication to his work was evident throughout his professional life.
His educational pursuits began at Thomas Jefferson High School, where he graduated in 1951. He then attended Lamar University in Beaumont with aspirations of obtaining a Chemical Engineering Degree. However, his selfless nature led him to leave school to support his family, eventually sparking an interest in laboratory work at St. Claire Coppers.
In addition to his successful career, Gilbert also served in the United States Navy starting in 1951. From Boot Camp in San Diego to assignments on the USS Halsey Powell DD686 and various tours with the Seventh Fleet, Gilbert's military service was marked by honor and dedication. He participated in significant events like the Seattle Sea Fare and remained connected with his fellow servicemen through numerous ship reunions over the years.
One of Gilbert's proudest accomplishments was growing up speaking Cajun French, a testament to his rich cultural heritage and Louisiana roots.
Gilbert is survived by his children Gilbert Curtis Lege and his wife Leslie, Craig Anthony Lege and his wife Lisa, and Desire Ann Lege. He is also fondly remembered by six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Sadly, Gilbert was preceded in death by his mother Olite (LeBlanc) Lege, his father Rudolf Lege, his wife of sixty-four years Elvira Lege, brothers and sisters Pearl Trosclair, Rudolf Lege, Eugene Lege, and Eva Brown; and blended family members Lionel Marceaux, Verna Marceaux and C.B. "Shelby" Marceaux; J. Nedley Lege, Mazie Lege, Mabel Lege, and John Irvin Lege.
A gathering of family and friends will take place from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., with a Rosary to be recited at 6:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home located at 5601 39th Street, Groves, Texas 77619. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at Immaculate Conception/St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church located at 4100 Lincoln Avenue in Groves. Rite of Committal will follow at Oak Bluff Memorial Park in Port Neches.
Fondly remembered for his dedication to both family and country, Gilbert's presence will be deeply missed but forever cherished by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. May he rest in peace knowing that he made a lasting impact on those around him.