Roger Daniel Bourgeois, 89, of Moncton, passed away following
a short illness on Saturday August 3, 2024 at The Moncton Hospital.
Born in Moncton, he was the son of the late Daniel and Edna (Cormier)
Bourgeois.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather and new
great-grandfather, Roger will be dearly missed by his wife, Julia
(Gallant); two daughters: Josette Hynes (Jamie) of Moncton and Maryse
Bourgeois (Angel) of Fredericton; two grandchildren: Catherine
(Brendon) and Patrick; one great-grandson, Noah; and many extended
family members and friends.
A person of integrity, he lived by example and was well loved
and respected by all who knew him.
Throughout his career, Roger was dedicated to the education
of mathematics and to the formation of future educators.
Having received his undergraduate degree from the
Université Saint-Joseph and his Master’s degree
from the Université de Moncton, he then pursued his studies
at the University of Alberta, from which he received his Doctor of
Philosophy degree.
Roger taught in secondary schools for 11 years where he was
affectionately known as ‘Bones’. He
moved on to teach didactics of mathematics at the Normale School for
five years and then the Université de Moncton from 1973 to
1995.
Many adventures were had with Julia, his wife and best friend
of 59 years. The cross-country road trip to and from Alberta
with their young daughters, their two-year stay out West, as well as
the impromptu getaways to the Rocky Mountains during this period, were
formative family experiences. Upon their return to Moncton,
their cottage on the shore became a destination for rest and
relaxation for many years. Retirement from the
Université de Moncton allowed more time for travel,
gardening, and family. Roger and Julia created wonderful
memories during multiple trips to Europe and several closer to home.
His flower garden was an object of pride and admiration.
He also enjoyed photography, dancing, barbecuing, and
attending his grandchildren’s activities.
Throughout his life, he served his community through
different forms of charity and found solace in his Catholic
faith.
We will remember Roger for his kindness, patience, fairness,
and sense of humour, as well as the love and joy he brought to our
lives.
Besides his parents, he was predeceased by one sister,
Antoinette Bourgeois (1978).
The family will receive condolences at Frenette Funeral and
Cremation Centre, 88 Church Street, Moncton (506-858-1900) from where
the funeral service will be celebrated on Thursday August 8 at 2 pm.
Visiting hours are Thursday from 12h30 pm until time of funeral
service. In memory of Roger, in lieu of flowers, a
contribution to the CHU Dumont Foundation, the Friends of The Moncton
Hospital Foundation, the Peter McKee Food Bank, or a charity of the
donor’s choice would be appreciated.
Words of comfort and donations may
be made at www.frenettefuneralhome.com