Samuel M. Gourse

GOURSE, SAMUEL M., 97, passed away Saturday October 15, 2016. He was the husband of Bernice (Markoff) Gourse. He was born in Fall River, MA, the son of the late David and Ada (Israel) Gourse. Sam was known for his abundant energy; his whimsical cartoons drawn on any available piece of paper, his beautiful photographs of people, places and things; his memory for details of Fall River, MA from the 1920’s through the 20th century; his strong connection to his alma matter, Brown University; and his love for his family, especially his wife of 48 years. After serving as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force during World War II, Sam returned to Fall River to operate his family’s clothing store, The Hub, S. Gourse & Sons, a Fall River, MA institution for more than 80 years. He later worked at Paramount Line, Inc. in Pawtucket, RI as the Personnel Manager. Besides his wife, Sam is survived by his children Allan Gourse (Elizabeth), Richard Gourse (Wilma), Judith Hoffman, Susan Hynes (Thomas), William Geffner as well as his sister Natalie Prokesch. He also leaves his grandchildren Rebecca and Alexander Gourse, Marcus and Alicia Hoffman, Stacy St Pierre, Michael Hynes, great-granddaughter Jacqueline St. Pierre, and eight nieces and nephews. In addition, the family would like to honor and thank the caring team of Sarasota Bay Club Care for their support and kindness in recent years. Funeral services will be held Wednesday October 19th at 10:30am at Temple Beth-El, 70 Orchard Ave, Providence with burial in Sons of Israel and David Cemetery. Shiva will be held 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 pm. at the home of Gloria Winston, Laurelmead, 355 Blackstone Blvd. Providence, RI. Contributions in his memory may be made to the Samuel & Bernice Gourse Endowed Scholarship Fund at Brown University. For information and condolences, www.SugarmanSinai.com