David A. Bourgeois
May 28, 1952 – December 22, 2009

The Louisiana Sea Grant family has suffered a profound loss this holiday season. Associate Fisheries Agent David Bourgeois died suddenly on December 22 at his home in Thibodaux. He was 57 years old.

David began his career at LSU 11 years ago when was hired as an assistant parish agent. He was promoted to associate agent in 2004 and served in Lafourche and Terrebonne parishes for Louisiana Sea Grant and the LSU AgCenter.

Professionally, he will best be remembered for his work with school children and his many efforts in coastal restoration in Louisiana.

“David was the co-creator of the LSU Coastal Roots Program back in 1999 and one of the three co-directors when the program transitioned into the LSU College of Education in 2006,” said Pamela Blanchard, assistant professor in the College of Education and the director of Coastal Roots. “Through these past 10-plus years, he was a positive guiding force for the program. David’s sense of humor, love of Louisiana wetlands and his expertise on coastal issues will be especially missed. He was a good friend and one that I will miss very much.

“On a personal note, David became a grandfather at about the same time I became a mother,” Blanchard continued. “His love of his family, and in particular, his pride in his children and grandchild, are what touch me most deeply in this sad time. David would always take time to ask about my son and we'd trade photos and stories about them. He and his wife raised smart and dependable children. My heart goes out to his family in their loss.”

LSG Marine Extension Director Glenn Thomas said David’s passing will be felt throughout Sea Grant and beyond. “He approached his job with a smile and a positive attitude that invited cooperation. His Extension activities exposed thousands of youngsters in his region to coastal science and important coastal issues.”

“David exemplified the spirit of the Marine Extension agent,” said LSG Executive Director Chuck Wilson. “He was patient, engaging, knowledgeable, and had wonderful interpersonal skills. He will be remembered for many of his contributions to Sea Grant and the community that he lived in and loved. One of his more recent efforts is the Coastal Roots Program, which he helped start and anchor at several Lafourche Parish schools. Dave was passionate about this program and getting young children engaged in marsh restoration.”

David is survived by his wife, Lynne; children, Elizabeth and Jake; and granddaughter, Aleah.