Obituary: Edward Raymond Chiasson, MD – Football 1970-72

Edward Chiasson MD 1952-2024

Thanks to Jerry Gibbens and Jimmy Poche for providing the Athletic Network with information on the passing of Dr. Edward Chiasson. Our condolences to Dr. Chiasson, his family, teammates and friends. He truly embraced life to its fullest.

Please click www.athleticnetwork.net for his obituary in the News, then the Photo Gallery > Football > 1970, 71,72 for the years when he was on the football team.

Edward Raymond Chiasson, MD, 71, of Baton Rouge, passed away peacefully with his wife by his side on Saturday, April 20, 2024. Born on November 6, 1952, in Alexandria, LA, he was raised in the close-knit community of Abbeville, LA. Edward embodied devotion as a husband, father, and well-respected member of the Baton Rouge medical community. A graduate of Vermillion Catholic High School in Abbeville, Edward pursued his passions at the University of Southwestern Louisiana, where his athletic spirit shone on the football field as a Ragin’ Cajun. His journey continued at Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans, marking the beginning of his distinguished career in medicine. Edward’s commitment to healing began with an internship at Lafayette Charity Hospital, followed by a surgical residency at the Ochsner Clinic. His professional path led him to Vanderbilt University Hospital in Nashville, where he served on faculty for two impactful years before planting roots in Baton Rouge. Here, he left an enduring mark, serving as the director of the Baton Rouge General burn center and later pioneering the trauma surgery program at Our Lady of the Lake Hospital. Recognized as a Fellow by the American College of Surgeons and the Society of American Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgeons, Edward’s legacy is woven into the fabric of Baton Rouge’s medical landscape. He ushered in a new era of surgical care with the first laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the city, reshaping the future of medicine. Throughout his tenure, he nurtured and inspired countless medical professionals, leaving an indelible impact on generations to come. Beyond the operating room, Edward reveled in nature’s splendor. A member of Bocage Racquet Club, his love for tennis intertwined with his passion for the outdoors. From conquering marathons to scaling mountains, Edward embraced life’s adventures with boundless enthusiasm. His expeditions to many of the “Seven Summits” stand as a testament to his unwavering determination and spirit of exploration. A voracious reader and perpetual learner, Edward’s intellectual curiosity knew no bounds. Whether immersed in world history or exploring finance and economics, he found comfort in the pursuit of knowledge. Yet, amidst his pursuits, he cherished moments of reprieve, earning the title of “Steady Eddie” for his calm demeanor in the face of adversity. Edward’s gentle nature and dry wit endeared him to all who crossed his path. His laughter was contagious, bringing joy to those around him. Above all, he was a beacon of love and generosity, a devoted husband, and father whose absence leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who knew him. He is survived by his loving wife Elif, daughter Kate Connell (Daniel), stepdaughter Idil Acar, stepson Derin Acar, granddaughter Barbara “Birdie” Connell, sister Judy Broussard (Gerald), and brother Robert Chiasson (Lisa). Edward was preceded in death by his parents, Dalton and Fannie Chiasson. A memorial visitation for Edward will be held on Monday, April 29, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a memorial mass at 11:00 a.m. at St. Aloysius Catholic Church, 2025 Stuart Avenue, Baton Rouge, LA 70808. A reception will follow at Bocage Racquet Club, 7600 Jefferson Highway, Baton Rouge, LA 70809, at 12:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Edward’s memory may contribute to the Alzheimer’s Association and the LSU Health Foundation of New Orleans (Medicine – NOLA NETS Carcinoid Cancer Fund). https://act.alz.org/site/Donation https://give.lsuhealthfoundation.org/givenow.
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Peace, Ed Dugas
Athleticnetwork@louisiana.edu