Ira Bourque

Published 12:00 am Saturday, November 25, 2023

St. Martinville—A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 25, 2023, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Loreauville for Ira Bourque, 87, who passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Tuesday, November 21, 2023.

Rev. Barry Crochet was the celebrant. Rev. Buddy Breaux concelebrated. 

Entombment followed at All Saints Cemetery in Loreauville. 

Visitation was from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Friday at Pellerin Funeral Home in St. Martinville and resumed from 8 a.m. until 10:15 a.m. on Saturday. 

A Rosary, led by the Men’s Rosary Group, was prayed at 6 p.m. Friday. 

Mr. Bourque was born in St. Martinville on March 15, 1936, to the late Elton and Pauline Dore Bourque. He was a devoted Texaco/Chevron employee of 28 years and lived a remarkable life filled with love, adventure and countless achievements.

Ira proudly served our country in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1957.  

Outside of his professional life and military service, Ira had a zest for life that was truly inspiring. He embarked on many extraordinary journeys alongside his beloved wife, family and friends. Together they traveled in their RV through 49 states in the United States and explored much of Canada. Their nomadic spirit knew no bounds as they experienced the wonders of nature and created cherished memories along the way.

An avid horseman throughout his life, Ira found solace in riding the trails well into his eighties. There was an undeniable bond between him and his horses – a bond that transcended words and captured the pure essence of freedom and companionship.

Ira’s thirst for knowledge was insatiable. He embraced new skills with enthusiasm and grace. From woodcarving to whip making, macrameing to whiskey making and even glass weaving, he approached each endeavor with unwavering determination. 

In addition to his many pursuits, Ira selflessly served as a volunteer fireman – a true hero dedicated to safeguarding his community. His willingness to put others before himself exemplified his noble character and genuine compassion for others.

When he sought moments of tranquility amidst the busyness of life, Ira found solace in fishing. These peaceful moments were a testament to his ability to appreciate life’s simple pleasures.

Ira Bourque touched the hearts of so many with his kindness, wisdom and infectious laughter. His genuine love for life and unwavering devotion to his family served as an inspiration to all those fortunate enough to know him.

Mr. Bourque is survived by his children Aline Albert Champagne (Lee), Karen Bourque Boudreaux (Ken) and Malcolm Bourque (Darlene); daughter-in-law Shelly Landry Albert; sister Clemence “Jeanie” Bienvenu (Andy); eight grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. 

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his loving wife Genevieve “Jan” Bourque; son Lawrence “Boo” Albert; grandchildren Katie Prados Boutte and Justin Boudreaux; and siblings Ivan Bourque, Joseph Bourque, Mildred Cormier and Madeline LaPorte. 

Pallbearers are Brent Bourque, Bart Bourque, Scott Courville, Randy Viator, Shawn Albert and Louis Hebert.

Honorary pallbearer is Heath Prados.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to Misty Melancon and to Hospice of Acadiana, especially the nurses and aides for extraordinary care and compassion given to their father. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Ira’s name to Hospice of Acadiana.