BOURDAGE, THERESA "TESSIE"
1963 - 2015
It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of Theresa "Tessie" Anne Marie Bourdage on Sunday, August 2, 2015 at the Saint John Regional Hospital. Her family was at her side throughout her short illness, as we were upon her passing.
Theresa is survived by her daughters Cynthia (Cindy) Wong and Lisa Wong (Dan Vienneau); grandsons Zachary, Dylan and Liam all of Saint John; her sisters Rolande Connolly, Bedford, NS, Rebecca (Becky), Saint John, Michelle (Andrew Hunter), Salmon Arm, BC; and her brothers, Michael, Ottawa, ON; Maurice and Frank, Saint John; many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles scattered throughout New Brunswick and Canada.
She was the daughter of the late Claudia (Lapointe) and Adelbert Bourdage and was predeceased by her sister Rachelle Hayward and infant brother Roger.
Modelling her own mother, Theresa thrived on her devotion to her two daughters and three grandsons. Family was her passion to which she devoted boundless energy as a driving force for countless gatherings and celebrations. Her siblings too, benefitted from her many acts of kindness and support throughout our lives.
Although small in stature Theresa performed above her size as a tireless, dedicated worker who showed pride in all she did. Working from the age of 14, Tessie could count on one hand the total number of days she may have missed worked. She delivered rural mail for Canada Post for 25 years and also served countless clients at local take-outs including most recently, her family’s restaurant, The Golden Wok.
Theresa also loved to find a bargain and liked nothing better than painting or repairing something back to use. Her sharp skills combined with her competitive streak, made her a natural at card games, scrabble or puzzles and she was always up for a game and a (small) bet. In earlier years she bowled regularly in local leagues but she loved playing BINGO most of all. The life-long friends she made at the tables touched her deeply by their show of support and love during her illness. To no one’s surprise Theresa always shared her winnings with friends and family. She got such joy out of giving and sharing that if you were in her life no doubt you were rewarded by her many quiet acts of generosity.
Theresa addressed everyone as “dear” so, dear Theresa it is time to bid you a loving farewell. Your BINGO card is full. Now claim your reward of rest and everlasting peace.
Resting at Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424) with visiting on Wednesday, August 5, 2015 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 PM. The funeral liturgy will be held from Brenan’s Chapel on Thursday, August 6, 2015, at 2:00 pm. Interment will take place in St. Joseph’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances made to The Joshua Group would reflect Theresa’s support of this charity. www.BrenansFH.com