euskalkultura.eus

06/06/2024 - Ontario, California, USA

Laurent was born September 10, 1937 in Arneguy, France to Joachim and Catherine Arretche.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Jean, son Danny (Carol Lynn), daughter Jackie (Melissa), and daughter Tina (Martin), brothers Jean and Arnaud (Maite), sisters Pascaline, Kattin (Dede) all residing in the Basque Country (France), grandchildren Zachary, Quintin, Gaby, Martin, Allie, Marcel, and Matthew, and many sister-in-laws, nephews and nieces, and cousins.

Laurent was the seventh of twelve children and worked on his family farm in Arneguy, France. He spoke several languages, Basque, French, Spanish, and learned English after coming to America. As a kid, he loved playing handball, Basque dancing, being an alter boy and singing in the church choir. His favorite story to tell was when people from Paris wanted to take him to become part of the Vienna Boys’ Choir. He said his mother wouldn’t let him go because he was needed on the farm.

Laurent came to America in 1956 to work as a sheepherder in Southern California with his brothers. He also worked as a milker in Chino before starting work in 1960 for Butcher Boy/Multifoods International/Central Brands as a supervisor in the production line for 41 years until his retirement in 2001.

Laurent married the love of his life, Jean in 1962. They first lived in Upland and then moved into their forever home in Ontario. Laurent loved spending time with his family fishing, camping in Bishop, being Team Dad for Danny’s Little League team, watching their kids’ sports and band performances and celebrating his Basque culture. Laurent was a proud member of the Southern California Basque Club. In his younger years, he participated in cultural dancing and then in later life was a club member serving as President for 8 years. He grew to love American sports, especially baseball and football. He was a loyal fan of his Angels and Rams. He loved music, listening and singing along with his Basque music, and Saturday morning polkas.

Laurent’s proudest moments was when he became “Tachi” (grandfather) to his seven grandchildren. He enjoyed attending many ceremonies, school performances, theater productions, sporting events, and Basque picnics that they participated in. He was so proud of his grandkids and would tell anyone who would listen that their successes were because they took after him and his Basque blood.

(published in Dignity Mortuary)