It is with heavy hearts and deep love that the Bourque family announces the passing of Gerald Bourque, who passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at his residence, surrounded by family and friends. He was 81.
Gerald was born on February 27, 1945, one of six children born to the late Robert and Amy Trahan. Raised by his grandparents in a home rich in Cajun heritage, he learned early in life the values of hard work, respect, compassion for others, and a deep appreciation for nature and the outdoors.
A proud veteran, Gerald served his country as an airman in the United States Air Force, stationed at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to his beloved New Iberia, where he began a long and dedicated career as a welder. He worked for many years with V & H Fabrication, contributing his skill and knowledge to the success of the business until his retirement.
Gerald was a man of many talents whose hobbies reflected both creativity and curiosity. He found great joy in arts and crafts, creating custom jewelry and rosaries, as well as making his own whiskey and wine. He loved tinkering around his home and was an avid collector of coins and firearms. He also enjoyed Civil War reenactments and Native American powwows; experiences he treasured sharing with his family. Among the many memories he held dear were the trips he took with his wife Sue, especially a memorable railroad journey to San Antonio filled with laughter and joy.
An avid fisherman, Gerald cherished time spent outdoors, embracing all that Louisiana’s natural beauty had to offer. Whether he caught a fish or not, he was content simply being in the moment.
Above all, Gerald’s greatest happiness was found at home with his family, friends, and beloved pets. Chico, his yellowhead parrot, along with his dogs Buster and Duke, Lulu, and the many cats he lovingly cared for, were all reflections of his generous and compassionate heart. He will be deeply missed, but his family finds comfort in the hope of being reunited with him one day.
Gerald is survived by his wife and best friend of 17 years, Sue Bourque; his stepchildren, whom he loved as his own, Lori De Soto (Robert), Dana Hebert, and Barry Lejeune (Kelly); his step-grandchildren, Jace, Alex, Gabe, Esteban, Diego, Kensley, Nathaniel and Andrew; and his siblings, Jessie Benoit (Leticia), Wilda “Sue” Rodriguez (Joseph), Gloria Benoit, and Joan Benoit.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Geraldine Bourque; his parents, Robert and Amy Bourque; his grandparents, John and Sevelia Trahan; and his brother, Raymond Turner.
A Mass of Christian Burial celebrating Gerald’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, April 27, 2026, at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church in Coteau. Fr. Anselm Ofudum will serve as celebrant. Following the Mass, Gerald will be laid to rest at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Cemetery, with military honors rendered by the Acadiana Veterans Honor Guard.
A gathering of family and friends will be held at Evangeline Funeral Home on Sunday from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., with the Men’s Rosary Group leading the recitation of the rosary at 6:00 p.m. Visitation will resume on Monday from 8:00 a.m. until 9:30 a.m.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Chris Turner, Paul Trahan, Josh Turner, Gage Turner, Carson Turner, and Robert Ogle. Honorary pallbearers are Robert De Soto, Esteban De Soto, Diego De Soto and Jace Hebert.
Relatives and friends are invited to share condolences and memories with the family by visiting www.evangelinenewiberia.com.
Evangeline Funeral Home of New Iberia is in charge of arrangements.
