Louis J. Mohana, Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and visionary entrepreneur, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2024, at the age of 75. His death marks the end of a remarkable life filled with love, achievement, and unwavering commitment to family and community. Louis Mohana was a pillar of the Bourg community, known for his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to his family.
Louis’s journey began in humble beginnings. Born to Louis J. and Mae Mohana, he grew up with a keen interest in mechanics and a passion for anything with an engine. This early curiosity led him to deconstruct a garden pump as a child, foreshadowing a lifelong fascination with machinery. His enthusiasm for fast cars and engines was evident throughout his life. Louis’s love for speed saw him compete in drag racing events with his son Joseph, including the NHRA Drag Racing Top Sportsmen Series.
In 1975, Louis married Jennifer Crochet Mohana, and together they built a life filled with shared accomplishments, family celebrations, and many road trips. Their partnership extended into their professional lives when they founded Louis Mohana Furniture. What started as a small room in a converted horse barn with a single employee on Hwy. 24 evolved into an impressive 80,000-square-foot showroom. Over the past 44 years, their business has employed hundreds of Terrebonne Parish residents and become a cornerstone of the local community. This success is a testament to Louis’s entrepreneurial spirit and his commitment to quality and customer service.
Louis’s commitment to his business was matched by his dedication to his family. His proudest achievements were the four children he raised with Jennifer: Tricia Summers (Brian), Joseph Mohana (Julie Miller), Anne Watson (Philip), and Katharine Mohana. He was also a doting grandfather to James Summers, Jack Summers, Julia Watson, and George Watson. Louis’s family was the center of his world, and his love for them was evident in everything he did.
Louis took immense pride in watching his daughters compete at the Appaloosa World Championships, a reflection of his love for horses. His life was filled with the joy of shared experiences, whether it was cheering on his daughters at horse competitions or participating in drag races with his son. His relationship with his children and grandchildren was characterized by warmth, encouragement, and unwavering support.
His home was also shared with two much-loved dogs—a white lab and a golden retriever, both of whom were treated to two stints at doggy bootcamp. These beloved pets were part of the fabric of Louis’s family life, reflecting his love for animals and his nurturing nature.
Beyond his personal and professional achievements, Louis was known for his generous spirit. He was a committed philanthropist, regularly donating to causes close to his heart, including St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center, and the South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center. His contributions made a significant impact on these organizations, reflecting his deep commitment to giving back to the community that had supported him.
Louis is preceded in death by his parents, Louis J. and Mae Mohana. His family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. Russell Henry, the VitalCaring staff, the Louis Mohana Furniture employees, and the many caregivers who provided support during his final days. Their care and compassion were a source of comfort to Louis and his family.
Visitation will be held at St. Ann Church in Bourg on Friday, July 26, 2024, at 9:30 a.m., with a Mass of Christian Burial following at noon. The graveside service will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or St. Ann Church in Bourg in Louis’s memory. These donations will continue Louis’s legacy of generosity and support for important causes.
The news of Louis’s passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and heartfelt tributes from those who knew him. Friends, family members, and community members have taken to social media to express their sorrow and share their memories of Louis. “Louis was more than a business leader; he was a friend and mentor to many,” shared a close friend. “His legacy of kindness, dedication, and love will continue to inspire us all.”
Louis J. Mohana, Jr. will be remembered for his entrepreneurial achievements, his passion for life, and his unwavering dedication to his family and community. His legacy will continue to inspire and touch the lives of those who had the privilege of knowing him. As the community mourns his loss, they also celebrate the remarkable life he lived and the positive impact he had on those around him.
One of the many ways the community plans to honor Louis’s legacy is by establishing a scholarship fund in his name. This scholarship will support local students who embody the same qualities that made Louis so special: dedication, kindness, and a commitment to community service. The scholarship will ensure that Louis’s legacy continues to inspire and support future generations, reflecting his lifelong commitment to helping others.
In addition to the scholarship fund, a memorial garden is being planned in Louis’s honor. This garden will serve as a peaceful and beautiful space where people can come to reflect, remember, and celebrate Louis’s life. It will be a lasting tribute to a man who brought so much joy and positivity to those around him.
Louis’s family is also planning to compile a book of memories and stories shared by friends and loved ones. This book will capture the essence of who Louis was and the impact he had on those around him. It will serve as a cherished keepsake that celebrates his life and the legacy he leaves behind.
The Bourg community’s response to Louis’s passing has been one of profound sorrow but also of unity and support. As people come together to mourn and remember, they also find strength in one another. Louis’s spirit will live on through the countless lives he touched, the memories shared, and the love that continues to surround his family.
Rest in peace, Louis J. Mohana, Jr. Your memory will forever be cherished by your family, friends, and community. The profound impact you made on the lives of those around you is a testament to the remarkable person you were. You will be deeply missed, but your legacy of kindness, generosity, and love will continue to inspire and uplift those who knew you.
As the community navigates this difficult time, they are reminded of the importance of cherishing every moment and the value of strong, supportive relationships. Louis’s passing is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring impact of a kind and generous spirit. His legacy will continue to guide and inspire those who knew him, ensuring that his contributions to the community and the lives he touched are never forgotten.
In conclusion, the loss of Louis J. Mohana, Jr. is a profound tragedy that has deeply affected the Bourg community. His dedication to his family, friends, and community, along with his entrepreneurial spirit and generous nature, made him a beloved figure whose absence is keenly felt. The outpouring of support and love for Louis’s family is a testament to the high regard in which he was held and the lasting impact he had on those around him. As the community comes together to honor Louis’s memory and support his family, they ensure that his legacy of kindness and service will continue to inspire future generations. Rest in peace, Louis J. Mohana, Jr. Your memory will forever be cherished, and your impact will never be forgotten.
