Ronald LaCouture
AIKEN - RONALD ALBERT LaCOUTURE (April 11, 1932 - September 26, 2021) was born in Marlborough, MA as his French Canadian family moved there before his birth. He received his early education in Catholic Schools in Quebec, Canada and Marlborough, MA where he was 'adopted' and taught by Catholic nuns until he was 12. He became emancipated at age 14 and worked delivering newspapers daily. He moved to Quebec Canada at the age of 16 and became a Canadian Cowboy where he stayed on Indian reservations between Canada, Montana and North Dakota. The Lokata Native American Indian Tribe "adopted" him and taught him about their Culture. He became an Estate Chauffeur and guardian of two children.
He served 5 years in the U.S. Navy at the Naval Hospital in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina as a Psychiatric Technician, studied Neuropsychiatry. He received a Good Conduct Medal and National Defense Medal. He served in the U.S. Marines as a Physicians Assistant. After his honorable discharge, he became a Mounted and Canine Police Officer & Fireman in Massachusetts and Michigan.
His work in Public Safety grew to Public Administration and then towards Governance in the public, private and nonprofit sectors and researched policies and administrations. He earned an Associates of Arts in Pre-Law, a Bachelor of Science in Police and Public Safety Administration, a Masters of Public Administration in City & County Government Administration, and a Quaesitum Doctor of Governance from The Netherlands.
He moved to Aiken in 1973 and finally found his forever family. Wade and Sissy Brodie offered kindness and compassion and welcomed him into their family. They included him in celebrations and he developed close connections with them and their dogs. Although never married, he loved the family dynamic and loved children. For 50 years their support offered him the security he needed to work in the community, including joining several committees to further grow the County of Aiken. His work included Helping Hands as well as other charitable endeavors.
He became Aiken, South Carolina's first Chief Administrative Officer and County Administrator. He became a Chief Administrative Officer and Consultant for the Municipality of Jackson in Aiken County where he enjoyed teaching and serving the public. He became a Consultant for Strategic Governance Systems and was sought after by many Cities and Counties in the United States. He was a Professor for public Policy and Administration, Political Science and Criminal Justice. He received many recognitions for his work.
Ron had a thirst for knowledge. He spent the majority of his time in his later years, continuing his research and studying various worldwide governments. He loved reading and studying books and he loved visiting the Aiken County Library daily to continue his research about Governance and Cultures. He became a mentor to many and enjoyed teaching more than anything.
He was a history enthusiast and enjoyed studying the Western and Native American cultures from the late 1800's and early 1900's. He spoke French, loved music, enjoyed Ballroom Dancing and played the piano and saxophone. He loved his Harley Davidson Motorcycles and his Classic Cars. He was a lover of all breeds of dogs and enjoyed training them. He attended many dog shows in Aiken and the surrounding areas, enjoyed local events and many social gatherings during the holidays.
He was preceded in death by his Father Vitalien D. LaCouture and his Mother, Elise Rossignol and is survived with loving memories by all of his dear friends and acquaintances throughout his travels in life, especially here in Aiken, S.C.
The public is invited to attend a memorial service and celebration of life to be held in his honor. The service will be held on Saturday, October 16, 2021 in the Sanctuary at First Baptist Church at 12 Noon and officiated by Pastor John Carroll. In honor of his memory, please consider a donation to St. Labre Indian School in Ashland, Montana, give.stlabre.org.
SHELLHOUSE FUNERAL HOME, INC.,
924 HAYNE AVE., AIKEN, SC 29801