Armand Auger

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Armand Leon Auger of Mansfield, Texas, who passed on November 12, 2024 at the age of 85.

Armand was a man whose warmth, kindness, and infectious spirit touched everyone he met. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and the deep, lasting impact of a life well lived.

Born on November 9, 1939 in New Haven, Connecticut, Armand grew up with a strong sense of community. After high school he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he proudly served from 1957 to 1961. Following his service in the Marines, he served in United States Army from 1961 through 1964, during which he worked at The Pentagon and served in Vietnam during the war. He additionally served in the National Guard from 1974 until 1989, at which time he was discharged to U.S. Army Retired Reserve as Sgt 1st class. He retired from the United States Army in 1999 after 22 years of faithful service. It was always evident that his time in the military shaped much of his life, instilling in him a deep sense of discipline, patriotism, and an enduring commitment to service. Even after his discharge, Armand carried the values he learned in the armed forces with him throughout his personal and professional life, and his fellow veterans remained dear friends to him.

In 1967, Armand met Diane Reid at Expo 67 in Montreal, Canada. They were married on June 1, 1968 in Montreal, Canada and went on to have 2 children, Karyn and Shawn. Their 56 years of marriage were filled with shared global adventures and unwavering devotion to each other.

As a father to Karyn and Shawn, Armand was a constant presence and source of endless amusement. He loved playing practical jokes. He was always there to help when needed whether it was helping out with cutting and assembling classroom materials for Karyn’s classroom or fixing a car or doing household repairs for them. Armand was also a proud grandfather, “Grampy”, to Rebekah, Alex and Nathan, who adored him beyond measure. He was adored not just for his jokes, but for his endless patience, humor, and the way he made them feel like they were the most important people in the world. Armand had a playful spirit and a love for the absurd, often finding joy in making others smile. His generosity of spirit, his willingness to listen, and his genuine interest in others made him a cherished member of every community he was a part of.

Armand had a varied and fulfilling career, after his retirement from the armed forces Armand worked in technical research and diesel fuel injection sales during his civilian life. He was consistently regarded as a devoted and motivated worker, who always found ways to bring levity to the mundane. Armand never met a stranger, and always had a story to share for every situation that came up in conversation. Although he was a salesman by profession, it was his ability to connect with people- stranger and friends alike- that defined him. A true pillar of his community, he was deeply loved and admired by absolutely everyone.

Armand was deeply involved in his local community and the church. He was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus which he joined when he was living in New Haven, Connecticut and Kairos Prison Ministry, where he volunteered his time and energy to bring faith, hope, and love to incarcerated men. He was also a member of the American Legion, where he continued his support for his brothers and sisters in arms. He also belonged to the Fleet Reserve and the Retired Enlisted Association.

Outside of his family and faith, Armand had many passions and hobbies that enriched his life. He was an avid traveler, with a particular love for France which is where his ancestors immigrated from. He enjoyed spending time playing golf, and had a great passion watching Dallas Stars hockey games. Most of all, Armand cherished the time he spent with his family. Whether they were gathered around the dinner table, taking vacations together, or just enjoying being together at home, Armand’s greatest joy was in the company of those he loved.

Later in his life, one of his biggest accomplishments was becoming a published author in 2023. His book reflected his passion for spreading God’s love through his gift storytelling and his unique perspective on life. His family will always treasure the fact that Armand had the courage and determination to pursue his passion for writing about his faith and sharing his voice with others- a legacy that will continue to inspire those who read his words.

Armand is preceded in death by his mother Yvonne Auger, father Irving Auger, and his brother and sister Irving Auger and Rita Fitch and his beloved dog Rosie. 

He is survived by his wife of 56 years Diane Auger, son Shawn Auger, daughter Karyn (Ric) Vela, and three grandchildren Rebekah (Zach) Stevens, Alexander Vela, and Nathan Vela.

Visitation will be held at Blessing Funeral Home in Mansfield, Texas from 5-7 pm on November 25, 2024. Funeral arrangements will be held at 11:00 am on November 26, 2024 at Blessing Funeral Home in Mansfield, Texas followed by DFW Memorial Cemetery. 

Armand was a passionate supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for many years. He believed deeply in the hospital’s mission to provide free treatment and support to children battling cancer and other life-threatening diseases, therefor in honor of Armand’s commitment to this cause, memorial donations can be made to St. Jude’s to continue the work he so passionately supported.