Eldon John Fontenot

Oh, I have slipped the surly bonds of earth,

And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings…..

I’ve topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace

Where never lark nor eagles have yet flown…..

And, while with silent lifting mind I’ve trod,

The high untrespassed sanctity of sky,

Reached out my hand and felt the presence of God.”

(Adapted from “High Flight” by John Magee)

He was born some 88 years ago, a full-blooded Cajun, on the family farm outside of Eunice, La.; in the heart of Acadiana,; and grew up there. He served honorably and proudly in the U.S. Air Force, earning commendations, citations, and medals. He followed up with two additional, successful careers, through his continuous and genuine work ethics which he learned early in life. He gave it all he had, his tank was finally empty.

He lived a full and happy life, “AND ALWAYS WORE HIS OWN KIND OF HAT!” (He did it his way !!) He enjoyed watching sunrises and sunsets. He always said he wanted to cross the goal line with an extra dry martini in one hand and a fistful of boiled crawfish in the other

He was a lifelong dedicated Roman Catholic and died May 12th 2026 in Sandy, Utah.

His dear wife of 42 years, JOLENE preceded him in death on Thanksgiving of 2024. He is survived by two children, six step-children and all of their spouses, along with numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; a sister and her children who still live in south Louisiana. To all of them, his friends, neighbors, and former colleagues, he leaves his final thanks…

Our Final Farewell will be held on Saturday, May 30th at 11:00 AM, graveside service at Mountain View Memorial Estates Cemetery, 3115 E. Bengal Blvd., Cottonwood Heights, Utah 84121.