STEVEN D. BOURQUIN
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — Dr. Steven D. Bourquin, 53, of Myrtle Beach, S.C., died unexpectedly on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2018, in Pembroke.
He was born March 2, 1965, in Shelby, Ohio, to the late Joseph Norman Bourquin and the late Sue Carol Bourquin. He was a professor and chair of the Math and Computer Science Department at The University of North Carolina at Pembroke.
He is survived by his wife, Stephanie Crandon Bourquin of the home; his stepchildren, Thomas and Shannon Barber; and his siblings, Angela, Scott and Chris.
Steven was a first-generation college student from a small town located in Louisville, Ohio. His primary goal in high school was to go to college and receive a degree in engineering. He graduated from Louisville High School, where he was a standout football player. He utilized his talents in football and mathematics to achieve academic and athletic scholarships. In 2012, he was inducted into Louisville High School Athletic Hall of Fame. That honor was a source of great pride to him.
He earned a bachelor of science in Mathematics from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, in 1988. It wasn't until he attended graduate school, also at Ohio University, that at the age of 23 his life's focus turned from engineering to teaching mathematics. After teaching one section of college algebra during his first quarter of graduate school as a teaching associate, he knew his passion was to become a college professor. His new goal was now to provide opportunities for other students to achieve their academic goals. From 1988 and until the day he died, he was changing lives through education. Ultimately, he also earned a master of science in mathematics and Doctor of Philosophy in administration in higher education, both from Ohio University.
Steven arrived at UNC-Pembroke in 2003 and in those 15 years, he established a reputation for teaching mathematics to students unmatched by any other faculty member. He received the UNCP Outstanding Teaching Award twice since assuming his position in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science. In 2016, he received the most prestigious award presented to faculty members at The University of North Carolina system when he was selected as the UNC Board of Governors Excellence in Teaching Award winner.
There was a common reaction by past and current students to Steven Bourquin's teaching style: He made a subject dreaded by many students fun and lively. He did that by making mathematics "A Participation Sport." He understood that students didn't care what he knew about math until they knew he cared about them. That was his trademark. His students knew he cared about them and that brought out the best in them.
He never lost his love of the game of football and his life often would revolve around Ohio State University and UNC-Pembroke football schedules. He was part of UNCP Football Advisory Committee in 2006 and helped bring the sport back to the university in 2007.
Steven was also a man who adored his parents. His father passed away in 2008 from cancer and his mother passed away in 2012 from ALS. He would tell his wife and friends on many occasions that his parents always believed in him and he was grateful to them for showing him how to be a service leader. He learned his lessons well because his family, friends, students and colleagues all have witnessed him serving others.
He had a love affair with living on the beach and cherished his time at his oceanfront condo. He possessed a tremendous love for his wife Stephanie, whom he called "Darling." They were married on the beach in 2015.
Steven was known to get emotional when he was asked to speak in public. He often had to be rescued by his friends yelling "O-H!," to which he would reply "I-O!" and gather himself. He will be missed but he will not be forgotten by those lives he touched.
A memorial service will be held on Friday at 4 p.m. at Floyd Mortuary & Crematory Inc. in Lumberton. The family will receive friends following the service.
His friends and colleagues will hold a Celebration of Life on Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m. at UNC-Pembroke.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to UNCP for a scholarship fund in Dr. Bourquin's honor to UNCP Office of Advancement, P.O. Box 1510, Pembroke, N.C. 28372.
Online condolences may be made by visiting www.FloydMortuary.net.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Laszlo Zsilinszky
August 30, 2025
So many times we think of you! You were good friend and good boss And you are truly missed in department and in our lives.. just last week there was situation which brought memory of you out again.. and it is always heart warming memory.
Adriana and laszlo
August 30, 2023
We miss you Steve the same.. time doesn’t make it better.. you were too important to us and in so many situations you come up..wish you were here bracing life with us..
Adriana and Laszlo
Judie Doggett
August 30, 2020
Such an incredible loss. I can still see him on the beach in Myrtle Beach. Those memories will always be there and never forgotten.
Glenda Myers
October 8, 2018
So incredibly sorry for this loss. I had Dr. Bourquin back in 1998/99 at Ohio University. An amazing teacher!
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Audrey Ross
October 2, 2018
Im a student at UNCP and I was in Professor Bourquins class just last year. His face, his kindness, his humor is all still so vivid that its hard for me to believe hes really gone. I have a learning disability, and he knew I struggled hard with math and his devotion to teaching and helping kids in need helped me through. Im so greatful to have him as my math teacher. I hope hes resting peacefully.
Nakiayah Watson
September 28, 2018
I was a student at UNCP that had took his Statistics class over the summer. Even though I did not really talk to him that much, I liked his laid-back attitude and how he just seemed to be a very nice guy. Not only that, but he could teach you the material in a very understandable way that even I had no problem understanding it. UNCP and the world lost a kind soul, and it is worse off without him. May he rest in peace.
Louise Matthews
September 27, 2018
Will always think of you during football season... and of course at Easter. Remember what you told me? to live my life with JOY : J- Jesus first, O- then others, Y-you last..JOY
I know you have peace now.
Chris and Lisa Frey
September 26, 2018
So sorry to hear of Steve's passing. We will remember his smile and him walking down the beach with his chair and cooler. Praying you will receive God's peace to help you through this time.
Alisa Sokolowski Parker
September 11, 2018
I'm so deeply sorry for the loss of Steve. I knew him through my brother Chad Sokolowski, whom went to OU with Steve and also lived in St.Clairsville, OH. My family sends deepest sympathy during this time. Our family was very fond of him and will forever remain that way in our hearts. God Bless.
Dr. James Newton. Retired Dean OUE
September 11, 2018
I was very sorry to hear of Steve's passing. I was the Dean at OUE and hired Steve to teach our math classes to primarily our education majors. It was always a pleasure to receive Steve's student evaluations at the end of the semester. Under my tenure as Campus Dean, Steve was the only faculty member to receive 5's from all the students in every class that he taught. Five was the highest score. I was sorry to see him leave OUE but he landed in a great university system, The University of North Carolina At Pembroke. Steve was a great friend, colleague and he will be sadly missed by many.
John Igoe
September 11, 2018
Steven was a great role model to so many people, especially my kids.
Lexi, Mac and Mitch will always look up to their uncle and miss him dearly.
Love, The Igoes.
Michael Spinning
September 11, 2018
My condolences to Steves family. He was a great man. He touched the lives and provided a positive influence to so many young men who came through Sigma Chi at Ohio U. We shared a common bond coming from the Canton area. While it had been many years since we last spoke, Steve was the type of guy I knew if there was ever a need he would be there to help. RIP brother.
Lan and Barbara Alaback
September 11, 2018
Such a kind and compassionate soul, may you rest in the loving arms of God.
Marilyn Sluder
September 10, 2018
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Lisa Moore
September 9, 2018
My deepest condolences to the family. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you go through this trying time.
Liz Prather
September 9, 2018
Im greatly saddened to hear that Steve is gone. I cherished his friendship and am sad that I hadnt gotten to see in recent years. Steve had a gift for making every person feel special. He was a great influence for students at OUE. I can only imagine how many lives he changed as his career continued. Rest in the Light, Steve. You are loved.
Sharon Kissick
September 9, 2018
Never before have I met a man so happy about life, love, students, and of course Ohio football! And so positive! When I was down he always lifted me up. In fact when anyone was down he always lifted them up! Although I'm still shocked that he's gone while I write this he Will be forever in my heart as an inspirational friend, leader, Mentor, and just overall awesome guy. I can't believe he's gone. Gone but never forgotten - rest in peace Steven... Sharon Kissick
Shelita Odom
September 8, 2018
Dr. Bourquin forever changed my view of math! I was never really any good at math and had just accepted that fact until I had him as my professor. I took basic math with him and statistics and aced both! He taught me to love math!! You could tell the passion he had for it and his students. Ill never forget sitting on the front row in his class and after the first lesson he looked at me and could see the fear in my eyes and he stopped right then and addressed the whole class and told us not to be afraid of math, that it was just numbers and that he was going to do everything he could to make sure we understand it even if he had to explain it 100 different ways! He was always available to help with any questions we had and never made us feel like we were bothering him or that we were maybe not as bright as some other students! I will forever be greatful to him for helping me get over my fear! My condolences to his wife, family and friends. There will never be another one like him, and he will truly be missed by many.
Joe Hudak
September 8, 2018
Stephanie, Diane and I express our deepest sympathy to you and your family in learning of Steve's passing. We have many good memories of Steve while teaching at OUE and living in Ohio. We also remember how very happy he was the evening he proposed to you. We were fortunate to be there and witness 'the big guy' get down on one knee. He left this earth too early. We will miss him. God bless and comfort you and your family at this time.
Jill Shaw
September 8, 2018
My thoughts and prayers go out to Steven's family and his friends! He always had a smile on his face an a kind word! I am grateful I had the opportunity to be apart of the shore drive family. RIP Steven You will forever live in our hearts! ❤
Willie and Lori Friedman
September 8, 2018
Dear Stephanie and Family,
We are truly sorry for your loss and may God Bless You & comfort you.
Courtney Kilgore
September 8, 2018
Dr. Bourquin was the best Math professor. I was scared to death of calculus and he made it fun. My sincerest condolences to his family, colleagues, friends and students.
Toni Ormond
September 8, 2018
My heart is broken that this sweet caring man is no longer with us. Prayers go out to Stephanie and his family for Gods comfort. Steven will always be a part of those who knew and loved him.
Mike Newcomer
September 8, 2018
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Steve and I had some great memories at OU. He was a great person and a dear friend. Still cant believe it. You will be missed by many and it's incredible how many lives you influenced in such a great way. RIP
Jack & Linda Berkebile
September 7, 2018
Our deepest sympathy to The Bourquin family in this untimely loss of your loved one. May God bring you peace as you hold memories of Steve close to your heart.
Jim & Ida Warner
September 7, 2018
Our deepest sympathy to Stephanie and Family and the Bourquin family on the loss of your loved one. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We remember you and your family as you lived up the street from our home. You touched a lot of lives, God bless you for that and God bless and keep your loved ones. Jim & Ida Warner & Family
Maggie Spikes
September 7, 2018
My deepest sympathy to Stephanie and Steves families. I knew Steve from OU, where as an RA, I asked him to give a lecture on getting in shape for spring break. Steve was so sweet to do it, and as you can imagine was able to pack the lobby of Read Hall with 25 freshman girls who listened intently.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
James Murphy
September 7, 2018
Steve and I where best of friends from first grade thru H.S.,Although we went different ways I always still considered him my bestfriend.My prayers and heart goes out to his entire family.Rest in peace my friend,from the Murph.
Steve Moses
September 7, 2018
My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time. Steven and I connected when we found out that we were from the Great State of Ohio. I grew up in Southern Ohio and he told me that he had graduated from Ohio University, just 45 minutes from my hometown of Thurman, Ohio. We were both BiG Ohio State football fans and every time we saw each other, we would break out into the O-H-I-O formation with friends. My wife and I enjoyed his friendship very much and will miss his smile and outgoing personality.
Guo Wei
September 7, 2018
Our deepest sympathies and condolences to Stephanie and
relatives.
Hearts breaking and pain lasting.
Steve was our best colleague, chair and friend.
He always cared every one of us and we love him.
Guo Wei
Tami Klingaman Raper
September 6, 2018
I am so sad to have heard about Steve. He was my neighbor growing up and classmate. He was always so nice to everyone. My thoughts and prayers to Stephanie and his step children, his sister Angel, and brothers Scott and Chris. RIP Steve and now you'll be watching over all the people who knew you and loved you.
Mike DeLuca
September 6, 2018
My deepest sympathies and condolences to Stephanie and family. Steve was a great friend and advisor to me and many other Ohio U. Sigma Chis during his time as a proctor. Whether it was his smile, calm advice or muscle Steve was always willing to assist. Im so proud of his accomplishments and know he will be greatly missed. God bless.
Carmen Cicero
September 6, 2018
Dear Stephanie,
We are shocked and very devastated to hear about Steve. We loved him dearly. We wish we had come to visit this summer. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love,
Carmen and Jody Cicero
Rev. Willie Hunt
September 6, 2018
I worked in business services and as i delevered the packages to his office i got to know Steven very well he was very personable and easy going became a great friend I am sure he will be missed by all. My prayers are with his family and also the math department.
Susan McCurdy. (Cindy's mom)
September 6, 2018
Steve always made me smile. If it was just running into him and Stephanie or when my daughter would come home and tell me she had ran into them and Steve had ask about me. A careing special person who will be missed. Stephanie my heart and prayers go out to you. I am so sorry for you; your family and Steve's familys loss.
Beth Holmes
September 6, 2018
Stephanie I am so so sorry. Praying that God will give you peace and understanding during this time
David and Rebekah Driggers
September 6, 2018
Dear Stephanie and family - we are so sorry for your loss. Please know that you are in our hearts and prayers. May God give you His strength and peace. We will surely miss Steven...
Roger Guy
September 6, 2018
I had the privilege of observing Steve in the classroom when he was selected for the Board of Governors Award for Excellence in Teaching. He had an uncanny ability and passion for teaching, and was able to deliver knowledge of math to his students in a caring and respectful manner. He was also one of the friendliest encounters that you could have on any day. I am shocked and saddened to hear of his death.
Joyce Lewis
September 6, 2018
I was so sadden to hear of Dr. Bourquin's passing. I met Dr. Bourquin when I was a student at UNC-P. I attended UNC-P as an undergraduate, as well as, a graduate where I received my degrees in Math. Dr. Bourquin always was pleasant to talk to and always had a smile on his face. He will be greatly missed on the UNC-P campus. My prayers are with you and his family.
Sandra Murphy
September 6, 2018
Steph..........This is such a shock.........My prayers are with you my dear........He seemed like such a wonderful man............May your wonderful memories help in the days to come........Know that I love you dearly..........Sandra
Ted and Ashley Price
September 6, 2018
Sending comforting thoughts and prayers to Stephanie and all of Steve's family and friends. We will miss seeing his bright smile and hanging with him at the beach. He was a very special person to so many people! Love you all ❤
Marsha Puttillo
September 6, 2018
Had only met a few times,,, so sorry for t
Your loss.
Natalie Pollastrini Pam Hines
September 6, 2018
We are so sadden to hear of the passing of Steve. He was good friends with my uncle/brother, Nickos, when they were at OU and Steve attended many of our family gatherings. He had a kind heart and his smile brightened the room. So many memories of Steve trying to learn to speak Greek to my grandparents. Thoughts and prayers to you all.
With deepest sympathy
Natalie (Hines) Pollastrini (niece of Nickos)
Pam Hines, Athens, Ohio (sister of Nickos)
Jackie June
September 6, 2018
I am so sorry for your lost Stephanie..My prayers go out to you and your family..
Andy Jackson
September 6, 2018
RIP Stevie B, you will always be remembered as a great teammate, friend, and role model!
Christie Bagley
September 6, 2018
I'm saddened and shocked to hear of the loss of Steven. He was a great man and husband to Stephanie and a great role model. I'm praying for Stepahanie and both your families. My deepest Sympathies are with you all.
Charley Harrington
September 6, 2018
Steven was a man who found great joy in serving people. He was kind, considerate, and compassionate. He was a true friend and a tremendous colleague. He certainly left a profound impression on those who knew and loved him. He made a difference. He will be very dearly missed.
Theresa Radalia-Wern
September 6, 2018
Im so sorry to hear this sad news. I have so many wonderful memories of Steve and the entire Bourquin family from St. Louis Church and growing up together in Louisville, Ohio. Continued prayers for Stephanie and his friends and family. xo
Don, Kelly and Family
September 6, 2018
Dear Stephanie and Family,
We are truly sorry for your loss. Our deepest heartfelt sympathies are with you all.
John Greene
September 6, 2018
Condolences and prayers to the family and all affected.
#TeamUNCP
#GOBRAVES
#Math&ComputerScience
Judie Doggett
September 6, 2018
To Stephanie, your children and his family. You are all in my prayers. I was just at the beach a month ago and feel grateful that I got to see Steven. He will be missed so much by all he was a great great person. RIP my friend.
Roberta Avila
September 6, 2018
Rest in Heaven
Mark Estep
September 6, 2018
I was fortunate to call Steven a friend. One of the most caring, giving individuals I've ever known. I will miss that big smile- RIP!
Eddie Eschenbrenner
September 6, 2018
Steven was a wonderful person and great friend I will miss him very much .My prayers are with his wife and family
Karen Swiney
September 6, 2018
So sorry to hear of Dr. Bourquin's passing. He was a wonderful man of great character. UNC Pembroke has lost a good one and his smiling face will be certainly be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this time. Thanks for sharing him with us. Gone but never forgotten!
TERESA HARRIS
September 6, 2018
He was a wonderful caring friend of mine for 15 years. He was so disciplined and health conscious every day of his life and never got off track. He will be greatly missed by all of his friends and family. RIP, LOVE COUNTRY!
Ted Street
September 6, 2018
Steve was a great guy and friend. I will never forget that smile and the way he treated his fellow man. God Bless
Loria Huggins
September 6, 2018
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Vicki Jacobs
September 6, 2018
Sorry to hear this. He was an outstanding professor. Praying for comfort for the family.
Sandy Carr
September 6, 2018
RIP my friend. You had to leave us way too soon. Prayers for the family and friends he left behind.
September 6, 2018
stephanie and family steve lived down the road from my parents in louisville ohio and i went to school with him he was so friendly and his smile was sweet i will miss him dearly i know his brothers and sister they are wonderful my prayers go out to you and your family . sincerly debbie dexter
Laszlo Zsilinszky
September 6, 2018
Our condolences Stephanie, our hearts are breaking with news of Steves passing and can't imagine not to see him anymore. He was absolutely best colleague and friend and he will be missed every single day. We are very sorry. Adriana and Laszlo
Linda Stutt
September 5, 2018
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Stephanie and your family! It is such sad news to hear about Steven! He was a wonderful man and will be missed. May God bless you and your familyWe love you❤
Valerie Turnmmire
September 5, 2018
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Greg Smullen
September 5, 2018
My condolences. I have find memories of Steve from our days at OU and the Sigma Chi House. In hoc Steve!
Wendy Sweat
September 5, 2018
Dr. Bourquin u will truly be missed, we started around the same time and over the 15 years u have touched a lot of hearts. We will miss that smile of yours as well as your great personality. I will be praying that your family finds some comfort in their hearts to a great loss. RIP we will miss your smiling face at the University, our hearts r broken without you in our family UNCP forever not forgotten
Kim Stringer
September 5, 2018
My deepest sympathy and condolences to Steves family! Im happy to hear see that he had such a fulfilling life after high school. Rest In Peace
September 5, 2018
Stephanie, we are so sorry for your loss. Our deepest condolences to you and your families. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Donnie & Susan Holley
Clarice Monnot -morley
September 5, 2018
Stephanie , angel and all family, Im so sorry to hear of Steves passing . There are no words that can take away the loss of Steve !!! He really was a great guy as well as a good character . He will truely be missed. I have great growing up memories at their house on edmar !!! Again Im truely sorry. Clarice
Mary Lunsford
September 5, 2018
So hard to believe he's gone. Although he didn't make it, he had "liked" photos from our 30th HS reunion just weeks ago. Never take a moment for granted. I am stunned.
loni and gary wehling
September 5, 2018
Stephanie, our hearts brake for you.
Doris Bristow
September 5, 2018
He was a one in a million , he will be so miss at as he would say at the Bs Busy Bs hair care .we will forever miss him almost every Fri at 4:30 .
Showing 1 - 75 of 75 results
Funeral services provided by:
Floyd Mortuary and Crematory Inc. - Lumberton809 East 5th Street, Lumberton, NC 28358

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more