Richard J. Bougie

Rich was born June 1, 1951, in Escanaba, the son of George and Frances (Bussineau) Bougie. He graduated from Holy Name High School class of 1970. He enlisted in the United States Coast Guard on July 13, 1970, and served until he was honorably discharged on July 12, 1974. Rich spent those years navigating as a Coxswain on the vessels.

Rich was united in marriage to Mary Rose Tourangeau on October 16, 1976, at Holy Family Church. Together they raised their two children in Escanaba.

Rich worked at Northwest Fruit Company until it closed and spent 20 years at Sayklly’s manufacturing. Rich worked in the maintenance department at the Island Resort and Casino and retired in 2019.

Rich was an active member of St. Thomas Catholic Church where he lectured and volunteered. He was a member of the Escanaba Amvets Post and also volunteered at St. Vincent de Paul Society. Rich and Mary Rose enjoyed bus tours, camping around the U.P. and enjoyed canoeing. His true love was spending time at camp with his family and grandkids.

Rich also spent time volunteering with the Escanaba coast guard auxiliary. He enjoyed playing on his pool team where he was a former top shooter.

Rich was the most caring person who would lend a helping hand to any one who needed it. His mischievous smile would light up a room and make anyone feel welcome. He truly will be missed.

In addition to his loving wife, Mary Rose, Rich is survived by son, Patrick (Nancy) Bougie of Kaukauna, Wis.; daughter, Jennifer (Tom) Broeders of Escanaba, two brothers, Don (Joanne) Bougie of Escanaba, James (Donna) Bougie of Tucson, Ariz.; one sister, Barb (Jim) Couillard of Ford River; two grandchildren, Logan and Peyton Broeders; mother-in-law, Betty Lou Tourangeau of Flat Rock, Mich.; brother-in-law, Bob (Lori) Tourangeau of Flat Rock; two sister-in-laws, Julie and Karen; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Rich was preceded in death by two brothers, Dan and Gary Bougie.

Family will receive friends on Wednesday, March 10, 2021, from 2:30 until 4:30 p.m. at the Skradski Funeral Home in Escanaba. Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 5 p.m. at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Escanaba with Rev. Fr. Rick Courier officiating. Masks and Social Distancing at St. Thomas Church is required. Rich will be laid to rest in Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed to St. Vincent de Paul Society. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Bougie family. Please visit www.skradskifuneralhomes.com where you can leave a message of condolence for the family.