Lawrence S. Bourne

Larry was a 1949 graduate of East Rochester High School After working various jobs, he enlisted in the Navy in 1950 and served during the Korean War until 1954. After serving his country Larry enrolled at Geneseo State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in education.

Larry married the love of his life, Dianne, on Aug. 17, 1957, moving to Randolph, NY (Paradise) in 1959, Larry took over the task of growing the Special Education class at Randolph Central School. Every one of his students was like a family member to him. Later in his career, he took over the resource room and jumped into his new job displaying the same love, passion, enthusiasm until his retirement after 32 years at RCS in 1992. While teaching at RCS, Larry spent countless hours as timekeeper for the wrestling matches for 40 years, and boys’ and girls’ basketball for 20 years. Upon retiring from RCS, Larry served as the caretaker, Sexton and Treasurer of the East Randolph Cemetery for 20 years.

Shortly after arriving in Randolph, Larry also turned his attention and dedication to community service. He joined the Randolph Fire Company in 1961, serving as President, Vice President and Treasurer in his 30 years of service. In addition to the Fire Company, Larry dedicated over 25 years to the Randolph Rescue Squad, volunteered at numerous fundraising events, being an active member in the Audubon Society and the Historical Society for many years. Larry was a dedicated member for many years at Grace Episcopal Church, where he served on the Vestry for many years and Lions Club where he could be counted on for “ringing the bell” during the holiday season. Of all the ways Larry served the community, two of his favorite opportunities were volunteering for the Meals on Wheels program making sure meals were delivered no matter what the weather was like and volunteering at WCA Hospital where he could be found weekly “pushing people around” as he used to say, transported patients to radiology with a huge smile on his face and a unique hat on his head, earning the 5-Star Volunteer Award in 2016.

Larry loved to ski and was often found “bombing the hill”, cheering on the Cubs, Bills and Sabres, and attending St Bonaventure Bonnies basketball games where he would get a 3-pointer (hot dog, coke and popcorn) every game.

Larry is survived by his son, Timothy and nine nieces and nephews. Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Inez, wife Dianne, his seven brothers and sisters, and three nephews.

Arrangements were entrusted to the care of VanRensselaer & Son Funeral Home. To leave condolences, log onto www.vanrensselaerandsonfuneralhome.com. A celebration of life and cemetery service will be held on July 25, at 11 AM in the Randolph Cemetery. The Rev. Thomas Broad will officiate.

Memorials may be made to the Bourne Family Fund at Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, 418 Spring St., Jamestown, NY 14701.