Robert Daigle, a prominent developer known for shaping Lafayette’s landscape through projects like River Ranch, passed away after a battle with cancer. Daigle, 73, was surrounded by his family at the time of his passing.

Daigle was the mastermind behind the Village of River Ranch, a 320-acre development that redefined residential and commercial planning in Lafayette. His innovative vision, which emphasized community living and walkability, turned a once-empty soybean field into one of the nation's most successful traditional neighborhood developments. Daigle’s other projects included Sugar Mill Pond and West Village, which have also become cornerstones in their respective areas.

“Robert was always focused and passionate. He believed in his projects when others didn’t,” said Rodney Savoy, Daigle’s longtime friend and business partner. “His dedication to making quality developments a reality never wavered.”

River Ranch, perhaps Daigle’s most well-known project, earned national and local recognition, including the American Planning Association’s President’s Award for the most outstanding planned project in Louisiana. Daigle was also recognized as one of the 25 most powerful people along the I-10/I-12 corridor by 1012 Magazine and named Hibernia National Bank’s “Business Person of the Year” in 2001.

Lafayette Mayor-President Monique Blanco Boulet reflected on Daigle’s contributions, stating, “Robert’s work helped shape our community. His developments will continue to impact Lafayette for years to come.”

Daigle’s influence extended beyond Lafayette, with his developments reaching other parts of Louisiana and the southern United States. In recent years, he partnered with his son, Jordan, to develop West Village in Scott, another major project that has brought economic growth to the area.

Daigle is survived by his wife, LeAnne, and their five children. Services will be held Wednesday, October 23, at Martin & Castille Downtown Lafayette, with a public visitation beginning at 9 a.m., followed by a rosary at 11:30 a.m., and a funeral mass at 3 p.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church.

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