Reverend Paul Bienvenu was the Celebrant of the funeral Mass and officiated the services. Interment followed the Mass at Calvary Cemetery in Lafayette.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 56 years, Olivia Calais Bienvenu; his son, Stephen Bienvenu (Kay) of Lafayette, Louisiana; his daughter, Susan Bienvenu Williams (Wes) of Roswell, Georgia; and his four grandchildren: Ethan Bienvenu of Houston, Texas, Evan Bienvenu of Lafayette, Louisiana, and Charlie and Reese Williams of Roswell, Georgia.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Shirley Mae Stevens Bienvenu and Reuben Bienvenu, Jr.; his grandparents, Reuben Bienvenu, Sr. and Blanchette Bonin Bienvenu; his stepmother, Virgil Bienvenu; his half-brother, Darel Bienvenu; and his two stepsisters, Vickie Gray and Barbara Mansfield.

Reuben was born on March 27, 1942 in Opelousas, Louisiana. He was a graduate of Catholic High School in New Iberia. He attended the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, where he was a member of Theta Xi Fraternity.

His greatest pride and joy were his family. He loved his wife and children, deeply and fiercely, finding meaning and fulfillment in their lives and accomplishments.

He was a man of extraordinary intellect and unmistakable presence; sharp minded, quick witted, and possessed a rare ability to anticipate what lay ahead. A natural storyteller, he could captivate a room with ease, often punctuated by his signature smile, one that made you feel instantly welcome in part of a shared moment.

He was a natural born entrepreneur; he possessed a rare instinct for opportunity. His professional career included work in oilfield sales, a representative for GMAC, a financier for E.F. Hutton, owner of Arceneaux Ford, part owner of Cycle Center, as well as part owner of Rotorcraft Leasing Corporation. In his retirement years, he became part owner of four medical clinics.

Adventure was a constant calling for Reuben. A licensed private pilot, he loved to ski, was a competitive tennis player, and was ever drawn to the challenge of promising business opportunities. His curiosity, confidence, and drive carried him through life with momentum and purpose.

Truly, one of a kind, Reuben leaves behind a legacy of intelligence, ambition, laughter, and unforgettable stories. Those fortunate enough to know him are better for having shared in his life, his humor, and his generous spirit. He will be fondly remembered for years to come.

Pallbearers were Ethan Bienvenu, Evan Bienvenu, Charlie Williams, Wes Williams, Jude LeBlanc, and Marion Blair.

The family of Reuben S. Bienvenu III extends their heartfelt appreciation to the team at Hospice of Acadiana and Calcutta House, and to his wonderful caretakers Kent Zeringue, Carolyn Babineaux, Vickie Wiggins, Jeanette Tate, and Angella Lewis.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Reuben S. Bienvenu III to the Monastery of the Discalced Carmelites, 1250 Carmel Dr., Lafayette, La. 70501, www.lafayettecarmelites. org View the obituary and guestbook online at www.mourning.com Martin & Castille Funeral Home - DOWNTOWN, 330 St. Landry Street, Lafayette, Louisiana 70506, 337-2342311.