ANDREW “ANDY” JOHANNES BENSON BOURCIER

It is with deep love and heartbreak that we announce the passing of Andy Johannes Benson Bourcier, who left us unexpectedly although peacefully surrounded by loved ones on April 13, 2025, at the age of 79.

Andy was born in the Netherlands and came to Canada as a child, growing up in Winnipeg—his true and forever home. As the eldest of seven siblings, he had a childhood full of deep family bonds, mischief and fond memories of the prairies. His love for Winnipeg never faded. He had many beloved books about the history of Winnipeg and Manitoba. After spending time in Toronto—where he met the love of his life, Lyndie—and later following Lyndie in her career endeavours to Edmonton and Calgary (amazingly finding a job within a week of each move!) Andy and Lyndie decided to move back to Winnipeg to raise their daughter Chloe near Andy's large, supportive family.

Lyndie's coworker met Andy and instantly said she had found Lyndie's perfect match working at the restaurant downstairs. She declared Lyndie just had to meet him because she knew they’d be perfect for each other—and she was right. Lyndie saw him expertly debone a fish, and it was love from there. They shared a lifelong bond full of adventure, laughter, and unwavering love. Andy made it his mission to write her love letters for every anniversary and holiday, and they’d often laugh when they realized they had picked out the exact same card. Their relationship was full of inside jokes, tenderness, and a sense of humour that brought warmth to everyone around them.

Andy spent his career working as a waiter in fine dining, most proudly at the Fort Garry Hotel, where he liked to brag about being late only once in 17 years. He had an exceptional work ethic, pride in his craft, and a passion for food that never dimmed. He could create gourmet meals and fancy cocktails from the most limited ingredients and loved showing off his culinary skills to anyone lucky enough to sit at his table. Even at the age of 79, he insisted on cooking three meals a day for his family—always taking joy in feeding others. When his daughter Chloe became vegetarian and later vegan, Andy went above and beyond to learn a whole new range of recipes just for her, always making sure her meals were thoughtful and delicious, a true expression of his care. He also really loved his summer fruit -- making it a tradition to go strawberry picking every summer with his daughter Chloe and he really looked forward to harvesting from his Goodland apple tree every fall.

Chloe and Andy shared an unshakable bond. He never missed a chance to go on an adventure with her and they explored nearly every corner of Southern Manitoba together! They spent countless weekends road-tripping to small towns across Manitoba, admiring abandoned buildings, and exploring rural museums before they'd stop at a small town diner. He'd always be sure to leave a thoughtful review after! He happily filled his car with the 1950s CDs she burned for him, playing them over and over. He was tech-resistant in the most endearing way, having proudly made it to 2025 without ever owning a cellphone.

Andy had a razor-sharp wit and a gift for sarcasm. He was known for wearing hilarious shirts everyday but he had some special shirts for family gatherings just to get a laugh—like “If you met my family you’d understand,” and “Lost Dog and Sister: Reward for Dog,”. All he ever wanted for Christmas and birthdays was a new funny t-shirt to add to his collection! His desk was covered in Simpsons and Minions figurines, and his spirit of humour brought joy to all who knew him.

He adored his dogs, especially Sam, Pancake and Waffle. The bond he shared with Waffle was beyond words, and we know Waffle has already ran through a beautiful field to greet him joyfully in heaven where he would've arrived wearing his pink suit he was always so proud of!

He loved long conversations and a good chess match with his best friend Victor, and a good game of golf with Spencer, vintage photography of Winnipeg, and decorating for Halloween and Christmas. One of his most legendary creations was painting the entire basement floor red and covering every wall and even the ceiling with wrapping paper—just to impress all his siblings at Christmas. His creativity, humour, and desire to make others happy knew no limits.

He and Lyndie also loved to travel, taking trips together to Las Vegas, the Dominican Republic, Seattle, PEI, Montreal, Florida, and Banff—always hand in hand.

Andy is survived by his loving wife of many decades, Lyndie; children Chloe (Kash), Lisa, Lori, Bobby (Rosemarie), and Kim (Rick); grandchildren David, Min, Jasmine, James, Matthew, and Jordan; siblings Laverne, Yvonne (Mike), Theresa (Brian), and Luke (Donna); sisters-in-law Judy and Patti; and many nieces, nephews, great-grandchildren, and friends. He is predeceased by his siblings Emil and Terry, and brother-in-law Rick.

He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, kindness, incredible meals, amazing hugs and deep love. He will be missed beyond measure but remembered in every joke, road trip, love letter, and lovingly made plate of food.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please wear your funniest shirt in his honour and share a story over a good meal—just as he would've wanted!

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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