With heavy hearts and fond memories, the family of Ardis Almond announced his passing on November 21st, 2024, at the age of 75. Ardis was born on February 13th, 1949, in Shreveport, LA, to Laurie and Flo Almond, and lived a life full of love, laughter and adventure.
A devoted husband, father and grandfather, Ardis is survived by his wife, Patricia Almond, his sister Renee Almond Hill, his children Vince (Tayja) Almond and Jennifer (Bryan) Fowler, and grandchildren Harley (Chris) Baker, Mystery Almond, Abby Fowler, Avery Fowler, Alyssa Fowler and Ashley Fowler.
Ardis attended Texas A&M University where he honorably served in the Corps of Cadets. Ardis went on to earn a degree as a mechanical engineer from Texas A&M, and later used that education to design and build much of what is still being used at the Almond Brothers sawmill today. He always liked to say, “Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without.” After graduation and before starting his career in the sawmill business, he proudly served in the United States Army, as an officer. From the date of service until his passing, Ardis proudly honored servicemen and veterans and profoundly understood the sacrifice and dedication that it took to serve our nation.
In between studying engineering, and supporting the Aggies, Ardis met the love of his life, Pat. Throughout their years together, Ardis and Pat shared a deep passion for travel. They explored the world together, and they eventually found it challenging to discover new places they hadn’t yet been. Their journeys together were a testament to their shared curiosity and love for life, which Ardis exemplif ied every day.
In his career, Ardis was appreciated for his leadership in the sawmill/forestry industry, as President of Almond Brothers Lumber Co. from 1983 to 2020. In addition to his leadership positions in the company, he was greatly respected and admired across the entire lumber industry, having served as the president of the Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association in 2004. His leadership and wisdom will be missed as he felt like everyone at the company were part of the family.
Ardis was a friend to nearly everybody he met. He had a rare and extraordinary quality of meeting people, showing genuine interest in who they were, and what they loved; remembering and genuinely wanting to hear more about those interests the next time he saw them. He was gracious and faithful to everyone in his path. As a result, Ardis truly had so many lifelong friends.
In addition to all of his accomplishments and the love he had for his family and friends, maybe the easiest thing for people to see in Ardis was his love for and relationship with Jesus Christ. He was benevolent with his blessings and his faith. He willingly shared his faith with family, friends, employees and strangers, always walking strongly and courageously with his creator.
A celebration of Ardis’s life was held on December 1st at First Methodist Church in Coushatta.
