Festus Kenneth Bardwell

Festus Kenneth Bardwell, of Ponchatoula, Louisiana, passed away on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at the age of 79, surrounded by family. He was born on Tuesday, October 9, 1945, in New Orleans, Louisiana, the son of the late Festus and Aurelia Bardwell. 

Festus, better known as “Kenny”, found joy in the simple pleasures of life, particularly fishing, a pursuit that not only brought him peace but also served as cherished opportunities to bond with his family. He dedicated countless hours teaching his children and grandchildren the art of fishing, sharing with them the secrets of not only catching but also cleaning their prized catches. When Kenny wasn’t found with a fishing line in hand, he was spending quality time with his family. He loved his wife, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. 

Kenny is survived by his wife of 54 years, Valerie Bardwell; daughters, Tammy Langhauser (Michael), Crystal Bardwell, and Laurie Siekkinen (Davin); grandchildren, Sarah and Micah Breaux, Brianna Stoufflet, Michael Langhauser Jr., Colton Langhauser, Savannah Pierce, Alex McLean, Joshua Siekkinen, and Kennedi Siekkinen; 6 great-grandchildren, and 2 sisters, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

In addition to his parents, Kenny was preceded in death by his son, Festus Kenneth “Dude” Bardwell II. 

Family and friends will be received at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home - Ponchatoula, 100 W. Magnolia St., Ponchatoula, Louisiana 70454 on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, from 11:00 am until the services begin at 1:00 pm. 

Interment will follow at Cooper Cemetery in Robert, Louisiana.