Robert Bourgoin

Bourgoin, Robert Lee "Bob", 84, of West Gardiner, Maine, passed away after a brief illness March 1, 2026, at Togus Springs VA Hospice in Augusta, Maine. A third-generation French Canadian immigrant, he was born November 14, 1941, in Waterville, Maine, to Antonio Augustus Bourgoin and Evangeline Leota Loubier Bourgoin.

Bob grew up in Waterville, in a busy household that was frequently visited by a large extended family and at least one pet crow. He really enjoyed sports, and was a lettered varsity football player for Waterville Senior High School.

After graduating, he followed his father and uncles' footsteps and joined the U.S. Navy, proudly serving his country during the Cuban Missile crisis. When his tour of duty ended, he went to work for the railroad. In retirement, he enjoyed birdwatching, cooking, and yard work. His love of nature and wildlife also led him to become a registered Maine guide.

An avid fly fisherman, Bob cherished his annual fishing trips to Nova Scotia, where he fished up and down the Margaree River in pursuit of the Atlantic Salmon. He enjoyed tying fly fishing lures, and created hundreds of unique salmon fishing flies. His other hobby was playing pool. He played in many local leagues, participating in various tournaments over the years and forging many close friendships along the way. He was a member of the Vassalboro Masonic Lodge #54 AF & AM, with 32 years of service to the craft, and was also an active Knight of the Gardiner Knights Of Columbus Council.

Bob was predeceased by his parents; his sister, Jeannette; brother, George; partner, Judi Northrup; and most of his extended family. He is survived by his daughter, Sylvia; the 'son he never had,' Asa Hemenway; his ex wife, Bea; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. April 18 at St Joseph Church in Gardiner, with a gathering taking place afterward at the Gardiner Eagles Aerie 4330.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Margaree Salmon Association or the Margaree Salmon Museum.