Paul Richard Bourguignon

Paul Richard Bourguignon, a warm-hearted man known for his generosity, resilience, and unforgettable laugh, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on May 15, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina, just shy of his 79th birthday. Born on May 27, 1946, in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Paul carried the strong values of his faith and unwavering loyalty to his hometown with him throughout his life.

Young Paul's mischievous ways got him into trouble on more than one occasion - and his favorite partner in crime was his younger sister Anne. Together with their older brother Peter, the siblings loved playing "kick the can", roller skating and sledding on the hill next door with the numerous kids who lived on their street. Though polio left Paul partially paralyzed at a young age, he met the challenge with determination and grit. His spirit was unmatched.

Paul left Green Bay for St. Paul, Minnesota where he attended the University of St. Thomas and met roommates and fraternity brothers who would become lifelong friends. He started his career in sales at Kimberly Clark in Appleton, Wisconsin before entering the family business, real estate, eventually landing back in his hometown to lead his grandfather's real estate company. He shed the Wisconsin winters - but not his love for the Packers - when he moved to warmer climates in Charlotte, North Carolina for an opportunity with Allen Tate Realty in 1992.

Paul passed his can-do spirit on to his children: from cheering them on at soccer matches and golf tournaments, to racing them down the ski slopes, to packing them up for family trips up north and college visits all along the eastern seaboard. He always emphasized that they could do whatever they wanted if they worked hard and gave it their all.

Paul was truly gregarious - he made friends everywhere he went. With his booming laugh and quick wit, he lit up every room and brought people together. Watching a Green Bay Packers game with Paul was an experience in itself; his enthusiasm, colorful commentary, and snacks made him the ultimate fan and companion.

When Paul met Sue Lehmann in 2017, he realized that he had found his perfect match - in love and life. Visiting all of the far flung corners of the globe including southern Africa, Antarctica, the Middle East, South America and Europe, the intrepid travelers toured the ruins of Machu Picchu, cruised through the Norwegian Fjords, flew over the California Wine Country in a hot air balloon and swam with the dolphins in Costa Rica.

He was the beloved son of Lois and Richard Bourguignon, both of whom preceded him in death. Paul is survived by his devoted wife, Sue, who he loved deeply. He is also survived by his sister, Anne (Stan) Hooker, and brother, Peter (Linda) Bourguignon, who both remember Paul not only as a sibling, but as an incredible brother, full of support, laughter, and strength.

Paul's legacy continues through his three children - Jennifer (Ingo Zamperoni) Bourguignon, Sarah (Cary) Nichols and Matthew (Camille) Bourguignon - as well as his three stepsons, Brandon (Emily), Justin (Brooke), and Kyle (Jeanette) Lehmann and ten adored grandchildren: Henry, Amalia, Linnea, Matthias, Isabella, Theo, Josh, Ben, Jack and Scout. He was endlessly proud of his family, and nothing brought him more joy than time spent with them.

Beyond his circle of family and friends, Paul gave his time and heart to those in need, regularly volunteering at soup kitchens and local charities. He lived his faith by example: humble, kind, and always ready to lend a hand or share a smile. A good and generous man, a loving father, a devoted husband, Paul will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visitation begins at 10 am followed by mass at 11 am on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at St. Matthew Catholic Church located at 8015 Ballantyne Commons, Charlotte, North Carolina 28277. Reception will follow at Bridgehampton Clubhouse located at 16748 Bridgehampton Drive, Indian Land, South Carolina 29707.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Cancer Society.

Condolences may be offered at www.McEwenPinevilleChapel.com