LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) — Richard Zuschlag, who co-founded Acadian Ambulance, one of the largest employers in Acadiana, has died in Lafayette, according to a news release from the company. He was 76.
“Richard fought the hard fight that so many with cancer and its complications have endured,” the release read. “While we mourn our extraordinary loss, we are comforted in knowing that he is no longer suffering. He is now in the loving arms of his Lord, in whom he had unwavering faith.”
Acadian Ambulance was founded in 1971, and now has over 5,000 employees in four states and 37 parishes in Louisiana.
“His legacy also lives on in the company he tirelessly worked 53 years to grow and nurture,” the release read. “Acadian Companies is not just a successful organization but also serves as an example of how servant leadership, high integrity, and unwavering determination create success, not for one but for all.”
Lafayette Mayor-President Monique Boulet said Lafayette has lost a true pioneer and a compassionate leader.
“Richard lived a life full of passion for his family, his company and his community. He brought a great love to all of us touched by his life,” Boulet said. “As Mayor President, I am grateful for his support and guidance. I am also grateful for the decades of friendship and love he shared with my family. His legacy is built into the foundation of our community and how we care for each other.”
To honor Richard, city flags will be flown at half-staff at all Lafayette Consolidated Government buildings.
Lafayette Fire Chief Robert Benoit said Zuschlag’s presence will be deeply missed but his impact will be forever present.
“Richard Zuschlag was a leader and mentor to the fire service,” Benoit said. “He was instrumental in assisting the Lafayette Fire Department with the implementation of our Emergency Medical Responder program to improve medical service to the citizens of Lafayette.”
Benoit said the Lafayette Fire Department will lower its flags to half-mast at all fire stations in Zuschlag’s honor.
Former Gov. John Bel Edwards released a statement on Zuschlag’s passing.
“He wasn’t just a great Louisianan, he was a great man,” Edwards said. “Most people across Louisiana know Richard the businessman, but Donna and I, along with our entire family, know Richard as a loyal friend and devoted husband, father and grandfather. Through his philanthropic work, Richard devoted his life to making Louisiana a better place. I’ll cherish the many memories my family and I have made with Richard, and I know his legacy will live on for generations to come.”