Laurence Thomas Bourgeois

Surrounded by family, Laurence Thomas Bourgeois, aged 89, passed away peacefully Wednesday, January 1, 2020 at 4:11 p.m. Larry was born in New Orleans on September 16, 1930. Larry is preceded in death by his mother, Marie Bourgeois (nee Sisung), his father, Leon Joseph Bourgeois, and his older brother, Louis Bourgeois. Beloved husband to the late Helen Emme Bourgeois. Treasured father to Laury Bourgeois, James Bourgeois (Joan Parker), Thomas Bourgeois (Adrianne Rochon), and Kathleen Bourgeois (Thomas Merello) and much loved grandfather to Jesse Bourgeois (Sam Kneibler). Larry is also survived by daughter-in-law Diane Bourgeois and many nieces and nephews. Larry’s family overcame the hardships of the great depression. He attended Fortier High School and at age 17, received a football scholarship to Louisiana State University (LSU), attending for two years. Larry joined his brother, Lou, in St. Louis where he met Helen at Harris Teacher’s College. Larry enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and continued to write Helen from overseas. She joined him in England and they were wed in 1953. In 1954, their first child, Laury, was born overseas. Following the end of Larry’s USAF tenure, they eventually moved to North County as other children were added to the family. They outgrew their Dellwood home and moved to 411 N. Elizabeth in the winter of 1973. This century home in Ferguson was their home for forty years. Many evenings were spent on the front porch, visiting with neighbors and friends. Larry enjoyed many hobbies including playing darts, collecting stamps, watching movies, and following any number of sports teams. For nearly 20 years, he worked at McDonnell-Douglas aircraft (now Boeing) as a buyer of airplane parts for the F4 Phantom, F15 Eagle, and F18 Hornet. At age 55, he retired to read and travel and continued to support his favorite local sports teams. In recent years, at the assisted living wing at Hidden Lake, Larry enjoyed researching and hosting trivia sessions on a regular basis. Larry was a mentor, confidante, and all-around great father. After Helen’s passing, Larry remained strong in spirit and support for his family and friends. As a family, we will strive to live by his example. We’re thankful for the many years and memories we all shared together. We have truly been blessed by his life and love. Funeral services to be held at Valhalla, 7600 St. Charles Rock Road, St. Louis, MO, 63133, on Tuesday, January 7, 2020. Visitation from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. with a non-denominational memorial service to follow.

Laurence Thomas Bourgeois

September 16, 1930 - January 1, 2020