Claude R. Bourgea

Claude Richard Bourgea, 86, was called into the arms of his Lord and Savior on June 4, 2022 after a battle with leukemia. He was born on June 23, 1935 in Burlington, VT to Leonard and Angeline (Godin) Bourgea, the youngest of four children.
After graduating from Cathedral High School in 1956, Claude attended Vaughn Barber College in Hartford, CT. He went on to own and operate Bourgea's Barber Shop, a fixture of South Burlington for 37 years. Alongside his brother Roger, he dished out conversation and teasing to a broad swath of the community, all in great fun. He also served more than 20 years with the VT Air Guard and the VT Army National Guard.
In 1958, Claude married his high school sweetheart, Elizabeth "Betty" Allard, and for more than 63 years they remained inseparable. Together they raised a son and three daughters in the close-knit Caroline Street neighborhood.
Claude worked hard both at the barber shop and around the house, instilling a deep work ethic in his family. He prided himself on a well-manicured lawn and at the same time admired a "good head of hair." His family is particularly appreciative that his hard work resulted in many friends and memories made at their Starr Farm Beach camp. His sharp memory could recall seemingly every person and event in the area and their connections to one another.
Since retiring in 1994, Claude and Betty split time between Vermont and Englewood, FL, eventually summering in Michigan to be closer to family. Along with friends from Lemon Bay Isles, Claude enjoyed many years of golf, shuffleboard and the local performing arts. He never missed an opportunity for donuts and conversation at the clubhouse.
Claude was an avid sports fan and was often heard energetically coaching from his recliner. Over the years he adored his many cats, all named Minou. He was passionate about buying and selling houses and cars, moving too many times to count and keeping a list of over 60 cars owned in his lifetime.
Claude is survived by his wife Betty, daughters Kathy (Fred) Walters of Southport, NC, Laurie Bourgea of Brooklyn, MI, Lisa (Dammond) Barkel of Onsted, MI, and son Mark (Cheryl) Bourgea of Carmel, IN. He was Grampy to six grandchildren, Adam Bentson, Aimee Bentson, Christopher Bourgea, Briana Ranzo, Thomas Barkel and Elizabeth Barkel, as well as five great-grandchildren, Logan, Luke, Elise, Regan and Arlo. He is also survived by his brother Gill (Sandra) Bourgea of Williston, VT.
He was predeceased by his parents, his brother Roger (Mignonne) Bourgea, and sister Rolande (Leonard) Bissonnette.
Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, June 16, 2022 at Ready Funeral Home, 261 Shelburne Rd., Burlington from 4 to 7 pm.
A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 305 Flynn Ave., Burlington on Friday, June 17, 2022 at 11 am, followed by interment at New Mount Calvary Cemetery, 76 Plattsburg Ave., Burlington.
The family would like to extend special thanks to Tidewell Hospice, particularly his nurse, Jeri Walsh, for the care, kindness and dedication given our father. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Tidewell Hospice of Port Charlotte, FL or your local humane society.