Richard Bourgeault Obituary

Richard Donald Bourgeault, was a proud Marine, devoted husband, and beloved father and grandfather. He passed away on October 8, 2025, at Henry Ford Hospital in Clinton Township, Michigan. He was 82 years old. A longtime resident of Macomb Township, Richard was born on December 18, 1942, in Hamtramck, Michigan. His parents were Joseph and Beatrice Bourgeault. He grew up in East Detroit, and graduated from East Detroit High School in 1962.
Shortly after graduation, Richard answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. He proudly served his Country for four years. His military service shaped the strength, loyalty, and strong work ethic he carried with him throughout his life.
After his time in the Marines, Richard dedicated 54-years to General Motors. He retired in 2020 as a steam plant engineer at the GM Tech Center. Richard was a lifetime member of the American Legion and a devoted member of the Knights of Columbus Leo XIII Council in Eastpointe. He gave back to his community and found fellowship among friends. He was deeply rooted in faith, family, and service.
Outside of work and service, Richard was a joyful man and loved playing and watching sports. He loved playing softball, golf, being outdoors, and enjoying time with friends. More than anything, his greatest joy came from being with his family. Richard's presence brought warmth, laughter, and love.
Richard is survived by his devoted wife Nancy Bourgeault, whom he married on February 14, 1998, in Macomb Township. This was a true Valentine's day love story. He is also survived by his children: • Jason Bourgeault (Wife Jennifer Bourgeault) • Danielle Kelly (Husband Scott Kelly) • Derek Bourgeault (Wife Jessica Bourgeault) • Lisa Wasielewski • Charise Schemansky • Jonathan Smith (Wife Crystal Smith) He was a proud grandfather of eleven cherished grandchildren: Jordan Schemansky, Devon Kelly, Connor Bourgeault, Bobby Wasielewski, Jemma Kelly, Lily Bourgeault, Savanna Smith, Lea Wasielewski, Ashton Bourgeault, Sophia Smith, and Aiden Smith. Richard is also survived by his sister Rita Bourgeault, loving nieces, nephews, extended family members and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his siblings: Joseph, Ronnie, and Rosemary. ________________________________________ Visitation & Services: Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 19, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at: Gramer Funeral Home – Diener Chapel 48271 Van Dyke Avenue, Shelby Township, MI 48317 (Located between 21 and 22 Mile Roads)
A Knights of Columbus Rosary will be prayed on Sunday at 5:00 PM.
Interment with military honors will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan on Monday, October 20, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. ________________________________________ Memorial Contributions: In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Richard to either the Alzheimer's Association or the family are appreciated. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Richard, please visit our floral store.