John Emery Bourque, age 98, passed away on June 16, 2023, at his home in Lake Charles, La., surrounded by his loving family. He was born on Dec. 15, 1924, in Kaplan, La., and grew up in Evangeline and Crowley, La. John was the son of Esta and Lelia Broussard Bourque.

In 1950, John moved to Lake Charles, La., where he would spend the rest of his life. He dedicated 31 years of service to the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company before retiring. John also served his country with honor in the United States Navy as a proud member of the 125th Battalion of Sea Bees.

John’s faith played a significant role in his life, and he was a devoted member of Boulevard Baptist Church in Lake Charles. He found joy in his membership with the Rose Club, fostering a love for gardening. Outside of his professional and community involvement, John embraced the great outdoors. He enjoyed camping, hunting, and fishing, reveling in the natural beauty of his surroundings.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Helen Toups Bourque, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and companionship. He leaves behind his loving daughter, Barbara Wenner, and her husband, Bill, of Moss Bluff. John will be fondly remembered by his granddaughters, Pam Busby and her husband, Waylon, of Moss Bluff, Melissa Ethridge and her husband, Ron, of Richmond, Texas, and Allison McKinney and her husband, Chris, of Sugarland, Texas.

John’s legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Michael and Gabe Ethridge; Kate, Alex, and Jolie Busby; and Will and Jack McKinney. He is also survived by his sisters, Mildred Faulk of DeRidder, La.; and Gloria Vincent of LaPlace, La.

John was preceded in death by an infant son, his parents; brothers, Jessie Bourque, Wallace Bourque and Norris Bourque; and sister, Mae Clement.

John Emery Bourque will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to his family, his country, and his faith. His kind and gentle nature touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him. He will be deeply missed, but forever cherished in the hearts of his loved ones. May he rest in eternal peace.

Funeral services will be held at Johnson Funeral Home of Moss Bluff on Wednesday, June 21, 2023 at 10 a.m. The Rev. Sullivan Turner will officiate. Burial will take place in Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery following the service. Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday from 9 a.m. until the time of the service.

Words of comfort to the family may be expressed at www.johnsonfuneralhome.net.