William C. Bourque

Waltham - Mr. William C. Bourque Sr., of Waltham, died Saturday, July 23, 2011 in Eagle Pond Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, South Dennis after a brief illness. He was 84.

Bill was born in Waltham on June 28, 1927, a son of the late Camille and Cora (Ells) Bourque, and had been a lifelong resident. He was a graduate of Waltham High School and during World War II he served with the United States Army's 24th Infantry Division. Bill and his late wife also spent time at their home in West Yarmouth. His favorite spots were at Smuggler's Beach and Bass River Beach.

He worked as a print teacher at the former Waltham Vocational High School for over 10 years before retiring in 1994. He then worked part-time for the school system for another 8 years. His professional career began in the printing business where he had worked for the former Dorrington Press Company for over 31 years and then Lexington Press Company for over 14 years.

Bill was a member of the Vincent W. Picard Post #234 American Legion in Northborough. His family and friends describe him as a good and gentle man who worked hard. His family is thankful his quality of life afforded him good health up until his death as he was in the rehabilitation center for only 2 days. He was an avid photographer, up to date with technology and marveled his family with his ability to use his MacBook, iPad and Kindle.

His wife of over 50 years, Lorraine H. (Kelly) Bourque died August 14, 2005 and he was also predeceased by his siblings, Florence Busher, Peter MacLean, George MacLean, Francis MacLean and Stanton MacLean.

Bill leaves his children, William C. Bourque and his wife, Patricia, of Waltham, Patricia A. Duquette and her husband, Mark, of Southborough and Ronald J. Bourque and his wife, Jessie, of Medfield; his grandchildren, Cameron, Allison and Jonathan Duquette, Cory Lopez, Emily, Trevor, Lindsay, Katharine and Joseph Bourque; his brothers, Gerard W. Bourque of Northborough, Robert E. Bourque of Hyannisport, Arthur J. Bourque of Lisbon, New Hampshire and Richard W. MacLean of South Yarmouth; nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will honor and remember Bill’s life by gathering for calling hours in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham on Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. and again at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday morning when his funeral service will be held. Burial will be in Mount Feake Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, 20 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701.