Rickie Chenier

Rickie “Coon” Chenier, born April 21, 1954, in New Orleans, Louisiana, passed away peacefully at his home on March 7, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. A proud product of Cajun culture, Rickie lived a full life centered on family, friendship, and the outdoors he cherished.

He shared thirty-six loving years with his wife, Jena Chenier. Together they created a warm home and hosted an annual Cochon de Lait that drew family and friends together for food, laughter, and celebration. Rickie was the son of the late Wilfred and Amy “Marie” Chenier, and is survived by his sisters Geri Weber (Roland) and Barbara Bourgeois (Nolan), his stepsons Brandon and Billy Cook, and many nieces and nephews who hold dear their memories of hunting and fishing with him. He was preceded in death by his sister Joyce Murry, in-laws Helen and Joseph Leslie, and his best friend Larry Madere. He will also be greatly missed by his longtime friend Scott Duhe, with whom he shared countless adventures.

For more than forty years, Rickie worked as a skilled heavy equipment operator, primarily with RTL-Norco, Brown & Root, and Scioneaux, Inc., earning the respect of those who worked alongside him. An avid outdoorsman, he rarely missed opening day of hunting, fishing, or shrimping seasons. He spent many happy days at his camp in the swamps of Ruddock, tended a beloved vegetable garden that supplied tomatoes and cucumbers for family and friends, and enjoyed racing cars at the drag strip. Whether piddling in his shop or savoring boiled seafood with good company, Rickie embraced life’s simple pleasures with generosity and enthusiasm.

He is remembered fondly by all whose lives he touched for his warm spirit, his love of the outdoors, and the lasting memories he created with those closest to him.