Richard J. Bourgeois, of Lyons Falls

Richard J. Bourgeois, 65, passed away peacefully on Friday morning at Lewis County General Hospital with the comfort of his loving family and friends by his side.

Richard was born on May 15, 1961, in Constableville, the son of the late William V. and Beverly J. (Forkell) Bourgeois. He graduated from Adirondack Central High School and retired from Kraft Foods in Lowville after 30 years of service.

On August 2, 1986, Richard married Brenda L. Nortz at St. Peter's Catholic Church, with Msgr. Bernard E. Christman, Jr. officiating. Together they made their home in Lyons Falls.

Richard is survived by his loving wife of nearly 40 years, Brenda; his two children and their families, Brittany (Douglas) Salmon and Adam (Nicole) Bourgeois; his five beloved grandchildren, Landyn, Cadyn "Frank" Salmon, and Aryanna Salmon, Scarlett and Evelyn Bourgeois; his faithful companion and best friend, his dog, Blake; his six siblings, Mary (Harvey) Ingersoll, Patricia (Rick) Hoskins, William (Lorraine) Bourgeois, Ray Bourgeois, Tom (Darlene) Bourgeois, and Lisa Anson; as well as several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Richard was predeceased by his brother, John Bourgeois; and his two sisters, Diane Mulligan and Brenda J. Bourgeois.

Richard enjoyed riding his Harley-Davidson and was a member of ABATE of New York, promoting motorcycle safety and education. He also was an avid woodworker.

Rich was one of the original founders of Lewis County Taking Care of Our Own. He was a member of the Glen-Greig Fish and Game Club and was a former member of the Lyons Falls Fire Department.

Above all, Richard's greatest joy in life was his grandchildren. He treasured every moment spent with them.

Family and friends are invited to call at the Sundquist Funeral Home on Tuesday, July 28, from 11:00am until 1:00pm. A funeral service will immediately follow at 1:00pm, officiated by Evan Zehr. Burial will follow in Lowville Rural Cemetery.

Following the services, everyone is invited to a “pass away party” as the grandchildren would say, at the Constableville Fire Department. Those wishing to bring a dish to pass may drop it off at the fire hall beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday morning.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Lewis County Taking Care of Our Own, P.O. Box 155, Lyons Falls, NY 13368, or to a charity of one's choice.

We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the ED and Med Surg staff at Lewis County General for their care and guidance through this transition with such warmth and grace.