Donald R. Bonewitz
Safety/Human Resources Director
Don Bonewitz is a home grown product born in New Orleans and raised in the neighboring parish of Jefferson. After graduating from East Jefferson High School in Metairie, Bonewitz enrolled at Southeastern Louisiana College in Hammond, Louisiana where he received a Bachelors Degree in Health Physical Education and Safety. During his enrollment at SLC, he was a three year letterman and a member of the baseball team.
Bonewitz began a professional career as a high school educator, varsity football coach, and baseball coach. Bonewitz’s coaching career was highlighted by several District Championships and a memorable journey to the Class 5-A Football State Championship. After serving the Jefferson Parish School System for 21 years, he retired in 1990. Next, Bonewitz spent ten years as a Human Resources Specialist with Avondale Ship Yards, which at that time, was the largest employer in the state of Louisiana. After leaving Avondale Ship Yards, Bonewitz was functioned as the Assistant Director of Operations for the Fair Grounds Race Course. Bonewitz was a vital member of the remarkable team that returned the New Orleans Fair Grounds to live racing just 19 days following the catastrophic fire that destroyed the entire facility.
Bonewitz’s past experiences and understanding of working closely with people has facilitated Durr Heavy Construction in becoming the Employer of Choice in the New Orleans metropolitan area two years in a row.
Bonewitz has a passion for serving people and the community which includes Louisiana Special Olympics Summer Games and many other charitable organizations including Fourth & Forty for Lauren Valdin. His other professional involvements include the Louisiana Retired Educators Association, National Safety Council, Ochsner Cardiovascular Board of Councilors and the Metropolitan Safety Council. In addition, Bonewitz has served as the Secretary of Jefferson Parish Board of Zoning and Adjustments, an associate of the St. Benilde School Executive Board, a member of the “S” Club of Southeastern Louisiana College and an affiliate of the Bonnabel High School Fellowship of Christian Athletes Alumni Association.
Bonewitz served in the U.S. Marine Corps as a sergeant stationed at the Naval Air Station in Belle Chasse, Louisiana. Bonewitz and his wife Janice have been married for over 30 years and have three children: Russell, Bo, and Ashlie. The four F’s in Bonewitz’s life are faith, family, friends and football.