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Obituary: Alvin “Al” Chustz, Jr.: Weightlifting 1963-66 A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, September 26, at 1:00 P.M. at Holy Cross Catholic Church for Joseph Alvin “Al” Chustz, Jr., 81, who passed away peacefully on September 15, 2026, surrounded by his family. Father Andrew Schumacher will be the Celebrant. Visitation will be held at Holy Cross Catholic Church on September 26, 2026, beginning at 10:00 A.M. and continuing until the time of service. A rosary will be led by Deacon Robert Klingman at 11:00 A.M. at Holy Cross Catholic Church. Inurnment will be held at a later date at Lafayette Memorial Park Cemetery. Al was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and devoted member of his community, leaving a legacy rich in education, athletic achievement, and family devotion. Born in New Roads, Louisiana, to Joseph Alvin Chustz, Sr. and Mildred Moniotte Chustz, Al’s life was marked by dedication and passion. Al was a proud alumnus of St. Joseph’s Academy and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (ULL), where he earned both a Bachelor of Arts in Education and a Master of Education in Administration and Supervision. A standout athlete, Al was a vital member of ULL’s national championship weightlifting team, securing the title three times. His remarkable accomplishments were honored in 1989 with his induction into the ULL Athletic Hall of Fame. Spending 15 years as an educator, Al wore many hats, including teacher, coach, and administrator. His commitment to education extended beyond the classroom, as he dedicated 40 years to the school fundraising business, where his efforts helped countless schools thrive. Al’s greatest joy was his family. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Susan Rice Chustz. Together, they raised two sons, Chris and Travis. Al was a wonderful example of sacrificial love, caring for and providing for his wife and children despite debilitating illness. He loved hunting and fishing with his family and lifelong friends, and he was an avid football and track enthusiast. He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Susan Chustz; sons Chris Chustz and his wife, Angelle, and Travis Chustz; grandchildren Gabriel Chustz and his mother, Michelle Hebert Chustz, Bella Chustz, Andrew Chustz, and step-grandson Alexander Vincent. Al is also remembered fondly by his siblings Sandra Garrett and her husband, Jimmy; Glenn Chustz and his wife, Janetta; and Rosaline Parks and her husband, Michael, along with many nieces and nephews. Al was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Alvin Chustz, Sr. and Mildred Moniotte Chustz. Pallbearers will include Gabriel Chustz, Andrew Chustz, William Weatherford, James Garrett, Timothy Garrett, and George Weatherford. Honorary pallbearers are Alex Vincent, Dr. Andrew Parks, Rollie Andre, Joe Major, Donald Miller, and Joe Barcelona. Al’s humor, strength, and dedication will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His life exemplified commitment to family, education, and community-a legacy that will continue to inspire. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Al’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. View the obituary and guestbook online at www.mourning.com Martin & Castille – SOUTHSIDE, 600 E. Farrel Road Lafayette, Louisiana 70508, 337-984-2811. Warren A. Perrin Peace, Ed Dugas
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