Hubert "Hugh" Edwin Etienne

Hubert “Hugh” Edwin Etienne, 91, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. Born February 4, 1934, to Oscar and Lettia (Cart) Etienne, he was the fifth of eight children and would have celebrated his 92nd birthday on February 4, 2026.

Hugh was known for his quick wit, love of laughter, and lifelong sense of humor. A natural storyteller and prankster, Hubert had a way of leaving people either deep in thought or laughing until they cried. His expressive eyes often said more than words ever could.

A man of strong faith, Hubert was a devoted Catholic who believed in showing up—especially on Sunday mornings. Summers meant 6:30 a.m. Mass so the day’s work in the melon fields and sweet corn patch could begin early, while the rest of the year allowed for a later 7:30 a.m. start. Later in life, Hugh continued his faith journey by completing coursework through the Loyola Institute for Ministry Extension (LIMEX) program at Loyola University New Orleans, a

graduate-level Catholic theology and ministry program rooted in Ignatian spirituality.

Hubert married the love of his life, Darlene Thomas, on July 24, 1965, and together they shared 60 years of marriage centered on faith, family, and hard work.

Hugh graduated from Oil Township High School in 1952, earned a Bachelor of Science in Horticulture from Purdue University in 1956, and served in the United States Army from 1956–1958 following his participation in ROTC. He later completed his master’s degree in education from “that other school in Indiana” on June 8, 1970.

Hubert’s career reflected both service and entrepreneurship. He taught Veterans Farm School through the VA, built the Derby General Store in 1962, and taught at Rockport, Dexter and Siberia schools before becoming principal of St. Mary’s Middle School in Washington in 1970. Hugh also sold Vigortone Feed, McNess products, and Modern Woodmen insurance, forming many friendships along the way, including within the Amish community. During this time, he began what would become his lasting legacy—produce farming. What started as a small stand in the front yard eventually grew into Etienne’s Farm Market, built, rebuilt, and rebuilt again over the years.

Known by many names—Hubert, Hugh, Grandpa, Grandpa Tractor, Uncle Hube, Hubie, and most recently Pa—he was, above all else, a devoted family man whose greatest joy was being surrounded by those he loved.

Hugh is survived by his wife of 60 years, Darlene Etienne; children Teri (Mike) Dunlavy, Brett (Engel) Etienne, and Leigh Ann (Derek) Latshaw; grandchildren Brittany (Tony) Backer, Justin (Michela) Dunlavy, Cade (JacqueLynn Blair) Latshaw, and Danner (Malorie Evans); and

great-grandchildren Raylynn, Hudson, Ellie, and Finley. He is also survived by siblings Anthony (Mary) Etienne, Tom Etienne, and Yvonne “Susie” Evans, in-laws Lilith Reeves, Karen (Mark) Waninger, and Stan Hoskins, along with many nieces and nephews.

Hubert was preceded in death by his parents; sister Lorene Jones; brothers Justin “Bud” (Helen), Robert “Blick” (Yvonne), and Bernard “Sox” (Doris) Etienne; in-laws: Alfred “Heavy” and Ruth Thomas; sisters-in-law Diane Etienne and Juanda “Wigs” Hoskins;

brothers-in-law Gerry Evans, Arnold “Bub” Thomas, Robert “Bob” Thomas and Clark Reeves, along with several nieces and nephews and good friends.

Friends and family may visit with Hubert’s family from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm on Thursday, February 5, 2026 at Our Lady of Hope Catholic Church, 315 NE 3rd St., Washington, IN and also on Friday February 6th from 10:00 am until the time of Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am. Online memories may be shared with Hubert's family and friends at www.goodwinsieversfh.com. Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home is privileged and honored to be entrusted with the care of Hubert and his family.