Kaplan mourns loss of councilman

The City of Kaplan is mourning the loss of one of their City Councilmen, Richard LeBlanc, 71.
He passed away Thursday, August 2, after a brief illness.
LeBlanc, served as the District C Kaplan City Councilman. He had been sworn in last month, July 1, to begin serving his second term.
He served his first term under former Mayor Kirk Champagne, then served under the current mayor, Mike Kloesel, for one month.
LeBlanc was the owner of Walk on Me Carpet for 21 years and had been in the flooring business for 45 years and past president of the Kaplan-Hannut Jumelage Committee.
“I wish to offer the family my deepest sympathy and condolences on their loss,” said Mayor Mike Kloesel. “Richard fought a brave battle against lung disease and was pleased I was able to visit with him a couple of times within the past week. He was always courageous and remained positive until the end. He is resting with the angels now and will be missed. May God bless and look over Linda and all of Richard’s friends and family. ”
Former mayor Kirk Champagne also expressed his condolences.
“My heart is heavy. This is a great loss to the city. He really cared about the citizens.
“Richard was a councilman’s councilman,” said Champagne. “Always looking for the fine balance between the people’s needs and the business of the city.
“This city is a better place because of his good work and caring heart. He was my dear friend and I am honored to have served with him. He will be dearly missed”.
Councilwoman Melissa Guidry, District D said, “It is altogether proper and fitting that we never forget the dedicated service and sacrifice of Councilman Richard LeBlanc. He made decisions on what was best for the city of Kaplan with a level head. He was a friend and will be truly missed.”
Councilman John Carbaugh said, “It is with a heavy heart that I comment on Richard LeBlanc’s passing. Richard was a truly generous man who gave much more than he received. He was dedicated to his community in so many ways, including his service as Councilman for his district. His passing will leave an enormous hole in Kaplan’s heart. I will miss him as a fellow council member, but especially as a true friend. His devotion to our community is an inspiration to us all.”
Councilwoman Eva Dell Morrison said, “The City of Kaplan has not only lost a city councilman or the owner of Walk On me Floors, but a man with class, a man with style. I will remember Richard for his kindness for giving back to his community. He was always reaching out to help a family in need, but most of all I will miss him sliding across the dance floor. He and Linda would never miss a dance. He will be missed.May the work he’s done speak for him. We’ll miss you Richard.”
Councilman Dirk Gary said, “We offer our condolences to Richards family and companion Linda. He will be missed.”
He is survived by his companion, Linda Faulk of Kaplan; one son, Martin “Peewee” LeBlanc and his wife, Glenda of Abbeville; one brother, Donald A. LeBlanc and his wife, Clara of Abbeville; two sisters, Sheila LeBlanc and her wife, Latrell of Abbeville and Connie Leblanc of Abbeville; four granddaughters, Casey Choate, Jeannie Choate, Brooke Choate, and April Lognion; thirteen great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.