The Chackbay Volunteer Fire Department and the Louisiana Gumbo Festival of Chackbay are proud to announce Mr. Jon Kliebert as the 2026 Louisiana Gumbo Festival Grand Marshal. 

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Born and raised in Chackbay, Jon is the son of Eugene and Scheryl Kliebert and comes from deep local roots that have long been tied to the community. He is the grandson of Elmo and Annie Mae Oncale of Chackbay and Andrew and Gladys Kliebert of Vacherie. Growing up in Chackbay, Jon developed a strong appreciation for family, faith, hard work, and community service — values that continue to guide his life today. 

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Although work opportunities briefly took him away from the area, Jon returned home and has proudly resided in Chackbay since 2004. That same year, he established Bon Terre Credit in Houma, where he continues to own and operate the business. Through his work in finance, Jon has helped countless local families navigate important financial decisions while building lasting relationships throughout the region. 

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Jon has been married to his wife, Chantelle Hymel Kliebert, since 2001. Together, they have raised two children who continue to make their family proud. Their daughter, Elise, 22, is an architecture senior at LSU, and their son, Blaise, 21, is a biology senior at NSU with plans to attend medical school in 2027. 

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For Jon, being named Grand Marshal carries special meaning rooted in childhood memories and family tradition. Reflecting on the honor, he shared: 

“I’m humbled to be chosen as the 2026 Grand Marshal of the Louisiana Gumbo Festival. I remember as a child the firemen meeting at my grandfather Elmo’s house to pick a Grand Marshal, which used to be kept secret until the day of the parade. Even my grandmother said she was as surprised as everyone else the day of the parade. Hats off to the true heroes of Chackbay — the men and women of the Chackbay Volunteer Fire Department who donate their time and talent to keep our community safe.” 

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Please join us in congratulating Mr. Jon Kliebert as the 2026 Louisiana Gumbo Festival Grand Marshal. Jon and his family look forward to celebrating with everyone at this year’s festival and invite you all to come pass a good time in Chackbay!