Richard L. Wattigny

Published 12:00 am Thursday, March 7, 2024

Richard Lee Wattigny passed away on March 5, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family. According to his wishes, private services for the family will be held at a later date.

Richard was born on January 15, 1941, in Ponchatoula, where he spent his childhood. The family later moved to New Iberia where he graduated from New Iberia High in 1959. He joined the U.S. Army serving with the Military Police and Special Police as a sharpshooter and marksman. His future would be forever changed when he served 3 1/2 years in Germany, where he met and married the love of his life, Monika. They returned to New Iberia to begin their life together and welcomed their only daughter, Miriam. He proudly continued his law enforcement career by becoming a La. State Trooper and retired after 20 years. After, he pursued schooling which led to a second hobby career in the oilfield as a downhole electronic technician for Schlumberger, Gerhardt, and retiring from Perfalog.

All who knew him described him as honorable and kind, loving Westerns and Star Trek. He enjoyed traveling extensively with his family, company from Germany and especially his cherished grandchildren Jeremy and Alina.

He is survived by his wife of over 60 years Monika Tiesler Wattigny; daughter Miriam Wattigny Zoulin and her husband Alexander; grandson Jeremy Zoulin and wife Skye; and granddaughter Alina Zoulin, all residing in New Iberia. He is also survived by his sister Almyra Wattigny Johnson; numerous nieces including Deanna Johnson Bloodworth and June Johnson Hall both in Baton Rouge; and one nephew. He also leaves behind his best buddy Rico.

He was preceded in death by his parents Luther A. Wattigny and Edna White Wattigny; and brother John L. Wattigny.

The family would like to thank Vital Caring Home Health and Traditions Hospice for their extraordinary care and compassion.

David Funeral Home of New Iberia, 1101 Trotter St., 337-369-6336, is in charge of the arrangements.