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Valeton ‘Val’ Jude Dansereau, a revered architect and community leader, passed away peacefully at the age of 91. His significant contributions to New Orleans’ architectural landscape and his advocacy for heritage preservation are fondly remembered. Dansereau began his career with Curtis and Davis Architects and later founded his own practice. He was not only dedicated to architecture but also actively involved in numerous civic organizations, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
New Orleans – Valeton “Val” Jude Dansereau, a respected architect and community leader, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2025, at the age of 91, surrounded by his devoted wife, Bonnie D’Amico Dansereau. His contributions to the architectural landscape of New Orleans and his passionate advocacy for preserving its unique heritage are remembered fondly by those who knew him.
Born on May 16, 1934, to Raoul J. Dansereau and Desiree Marie Valeton, Val Dansereau was a lifelong resident of New Orleans, aside from his years spent working abroad in his early career. He graduated from St. Aloysius High School and earned a Master of Architecture degree from Tulane University, funded by a full academic scholarship. Following his education, he served honorably in the U.S. Army as a draftsman, which shaped the foundation of his architectural career.
Dansereau began his professional journey with Curtis and Davis Architects, where he played a critical role in the expansion and modernization of the Free University Hospital in Berlin, Germany, currently recognized as the largest university hospital in Europe. His talents also took him to London, where he served as the lead architect for the Old Course Hotel in St. Andrews. In 1970, he established his own architectural practice, focusing on various commercial and residential projects within New Orleans. Notably, he was a project manager for the New Orleans Sports Arena before retiring from his architectural career.
He is survived by his beloved wife of over 55 years, two children, and four grandchildren who affectionately referred to him as “Pappy.” His children are Dr. Degan Joseph Dansereau, married to Robyn, and Dami Ann Dansereau Burckin, married to Jon. His grandchildren include Degan Joseph Dansereau Jr., Lucille Marie Dansereau, Desiree “Daisy” Burckin, and Evangeline “Evie” Burckin.
Dansereau was a well-respected civic leader who served on numerous boards, including the New Orleans Museum of Art, American Institute of Architects, Allard Boulevard Association, Upper Pontalba Commission, and the St. Alphonsus Art and Cultural Center. He held positions as president of the Preservation Resource Center, Academy of the Sacred Heart Fathers’ Club, and the Christian Brothers Foundation and was a member of various clubs, including the Society of the War of 1812 and the Bienville Club.
A passionate advocate for the preservation of New Orleans’ architectural heritage, Val famously blocked his street with his car to prevent the city from replacing original street light poles, which remain in place to this day. He, along with his wife Bonnie, operated The Carrollton, a successful wedding reception hall in a renovated former movie theater that further showcased his love for architecture and community.
Travel was another of Val Dansereau’s passions. He traveled extensively throughout Europe, creating lasting memories in Rome, Nice, Venice, Lucerne, and Innsbruck. He often shared stories from his youth in Europe, including navigating communist checkpoints with blueprints and befriending spies, as well as sailing across Lake Wannsee to the American International Yacht Club.
A celebration of life for Val Dansereau will take place on Saturday, October 18, from 11 am to 1 pm at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home in New Orleans, followed by a memorial Mass at 1 pm. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Val Dansereau leaves behind a legacy as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His impact on New Orleans architecture and his dedication to the community will be deeply missed and long remembered.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Valeton “Val” Jude Dansereau
- Wikipedia: Architecture in New Orleans
- Dignity Memorial: Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home
- Google Search: Preservation of New Orleans Architectural Heritage
- Dignity Memorial: Legacy and Impact
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
