Richard F. Bourgery

Reading this bring me terrible grief, as I remember Mr. Bourgery, my high school teacher, mentor and gym-friend. Mr. Bourgery is the person I have always credited for helping me to find success in my life. He is the number one reason I am where I am today and who I have become. His classes were pivotal to my life path and his patience with my teenage-self will always be considered saint like. I am lucky he recognized me for who I could be instead of who I was.

After high school, much of my time was spent hiking in the White Mountains due to the influences his class trips to Mt. Monadnock had on me. Those class trips helped me to formulate a plan as a young adult to escape the trappings of so many misguided youths. Instead of finding trouble, I could find peace, challenge and life lessons in those mountains. The mantra 'hard work yields great reward' was hammered into me, footstep by footstep in those hills.

Mr. Bourgery taught me to type. But more than that, he gave me the ability to share my thoughts with millions, to meet my future wife, to communicate with the world, to acquire my first job and to a more successful person. He also attempted to teach me the art of accounting. Mr. Bourgery, you will be proud to know I have never bounced a check but beyond that, accounting is still a mystery to me. But, he tried. Boy, did he try!

As I grew older and was fortunate enough to reconnect with him at The Woonsocket Racquetball Club occasionally, our time spent chatting together was incredibly valuable. Although he had gotten older, he never lost his spirit, his sense of humor, his work-hard mantra or his ability to share his wisdom.

Thank you, Mr. Bourgery for everything you have shared with all of us. I was lucky enough to hear your message and follow your light. Your life lessons have not gone unheard. I am still moving forward thanks to your direction from so many years ago. sir. I will miss you, and never forget you.

I´m so sorry for the loss of your Dad. It´s never easy losing a parent or loved one. My heartfelt condolences to you and your families at this time.
Sincerely,
Lisa Drummy