Buzz Salard

Herbert Pierre “Buzz” Salard, 81 years of age and a resident of Natchitoches, passed away Sunday, January 6, 2019, in Natchitoches.  He was born on March 21, 1937, to John Salard and Anna Vercher Salard in Chopin, LA.  He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Judy Phillips; and his siblings, Maisie DeLacerda, Irene “Kate” Salard, Lula Edwards, Lela Watson, John “Buddy” Salard, Elma Melker, Norma DeLacerda, and Dorothy Jean Garsee. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Janet Darche Salard; his children, John Salard and wife Misty, Gary Salard and wife Michelle, Greg Salard and wife Laura, Glenn Salard, and Doris Whatley and husband Dan; sister, Wynona “Nonie” Hammond; brother, Winston Salard; and daughter-in-law, Pat Salard.  He was blessed with 19 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Buzz was a veteran of the Korean War, serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Fechteler and the USS Lewis Hancock.  He served his community and retired as a Louisiana State Trooper.  Buzz was widely known as a great fiddler, but could also play the guitar, mandolin, banjo, viola, and double bass. He had a great “ear” for music and although he never learned to read music, he could play any song after listening to it once. Buzz was recognized and inducted into the LA Folklife Center Hall of Master Folk Artists in 2007 for his contribution to preserving Louisiana’s cultural traditions. He loved making music with so many legends of bluegrass music and local musicians over the years but always enjoyed performing for family and grandchildren the most. Through all his achievements in life, none was greater than his family.  They were the most important to him over the years and he will be dearly missed by his family and friends. Burial will be held at 2 PM on Saturday, January 12 at Emmanuel Cemetery in Chopin, LA. Family and friends are invited to remain for food and fellowship immediately following at the Emmanuel Church Hall. Covered dishes and desserts are welcome.