Roger Bourgeois

(February 10, 1951 – July 27, 2026) A life worth celebrating… Roger Bourgeois, beloved son of the late Pierre and Marianne Bourgeois, lived a life that quietly reminded us all that true greatness is found in kindness. A lifelong resident of Chéticamp, Nova Scotia, Roger was known for his gentle heart, warm smile, and remarkable ability to make everyone around him feel welcome. He never wanted attention, yet he left a lasting impression on countless lives simply by being the caring, genuine person he was every single day. For many years, Roger worked at the Co-op, where customers and coworkers came to know him not only for his dedication, but for the warmth, respect, and genuine friendship he extended to everyone he met. He always had a smile on his face and time for a friendly conversation. Roger embraced life with enthusiasm. In his younger years, he enjoyed sports, tending the net as a hockey goalie and behind the plate as a softball catcher. He was also a devoted member of the Chéticamp Kinsmen for many years, always willing to lend a helping hand and give back to his community. That same spirit of service continued throughout his life as he volunteered with the local seniors’ board, helping others without ever seeking recognition. Music was woven into Roger’s soul. Since the 1980s, he faithfully sang in his church choir, sharing both his voice and faith with his community. He loved the old school music of the 50’s and 60’s. He and Laurette shared a love of dancing, and some of their happiest memories were made surrounded by family and friends. Whether at a celebration or a community gathering, they could often be found smiling together, enjoying each other’s company and embracing life with the warmth and joy that defined them both. Roger appreciated life’s simple pleasures. He was a devoted fan of the Montreal Canadiens, enjoyed watching the Toronto Blue Jays, and treasured every opportunity to spend time with family and friends. He had a gift for making people feel at home, and his warmth and kindness made even ordinary moments memorable. Above all else, Roger’s greatest love was his family. He was immensely proud of his son, Aaron, and cherished the close bond they shared. They always made a point of staying connected and spoke regularly on the phone. Roger’s heart also belonged to his loving wife, Laurette. It was truly a blessing how they found each other later in life. Together, they shared a beautiful marriage built on love, laughter, and unwavering companionship. They were rarely apart, happiest simply being together—whether doing everyday chores, watching a movie, enjoying a game of cards with family and friends, spending time with Olivier and Josiane, dancing, or simply enjoying each other’s company. Their love was genuine and enduring, inspiring everyone fortunate enough to witness it. From the very beginning, Roger became part of Laurette’s family as though he always belonged. His kindness, humility, and easygoing nature made everyone feel comfortable, and he was loved not as an in-law, but simply as family. He held a special place in his heart for his stepchildren and their families—Jeff and Bridget, Marc and Jolene, and Kevin and Lovey, as well as his step-grandchildren, Ben, Heidi, and Maya, all of whom brought him immense joy and pride. Roger also shared a special bond with Blue and Lola, two Bernese Mountain Dogs who eagerly greeted him whenever he visited. Dogs have a special way of recognizing kindness, and they clearly saw in Roger the same gentle spirit that everyone else did. Roger shared a deep and lasting bond with his brothers and sisters, Vincent and Pierre Lévis (Shirley), Louise Anna (Alfred), Zabeth (George), Stella (Wilburt), and Monique (Cam). He was predeceased by his brothers Emile, Ephrem, Henri, Alphonse, and Robert, and by his sister, Marguerite. Roger treasured all of his siblings and the families they built together, as family was always at the center of his life. Roger was also predeceased by his former wife, Marie Stella. He remained by her side throughout her long battle with cancer, offering his support with the same compassion, kindness, and generosity that defined his life. His greatest legacy will not be measured by what he owned or accomplished, but by the countless lives he touched with his kindness, humility, generosity, and unwavering love. Family, friends, neighbours, coworkers, and even strangers were all greeted with the same warmth and sincerity. Roger had a special gift for making everyone feel valued simply by being himself. One song always held a special place in Roger’s heart—Back Home Again by John Denver. Its message of home, family, and life’s simple blessings reflected the values Roger lived every day. For those who loved him, hearing that familiar melody will forever bring back memories of his gentle spirit, warm smile, and the kindness he shared so freely. Among family and friends, there was a saying that always brought a smile: “Be like Roger.” It was not simply a phrase—it was the highest compliment you could give someone. Kind. Humble. Patient. Genuine. The kind of person who always found the good in others, who loved without condition, and who quietly made the world around him a better place. The world is a little quieter without Roger’s smile, but infinitely better because he was here. He showed us that the greatest legacy we can leave is not wealth or recognition, but the kindness we share and the love we give. For those fortunate enough to have known him, the simple words, “Be like Roger,” will forever remind us that a life lived with kindness, humility, generosity, and love is a life truly well lived.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026 in St. Peter’s Church, Cheticamp from 1 pm until time of funeral mass at 2 pm with Father Daniel Gustave officiating. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery.