Leonard Bourque from South Hadley, a quintessential family man, died peacefully at home early Friday morning. Leonard celebrated his 90 ^th birthday in March with his extensive family, a gathering they will forever cherish. Leonard was born in Chicopee, MA to Louis and Leonie (Orban) Bourque. He was the youngest of ten children in his family; and took care of each one of them in his thoughtful and loving way, just as he always cared for the family he grew with the love of his life Jacqueline (Guimond) Bourque.  Jackie was always by Len's side for 64 years, gently comforting him through his last days at home. They shared a lifetime of love and memories. To say Leonard loved life, does not begin to capture his passions. Len was not only an avid sports fan of all teams Boston, he was a UMASS basketball and football season ticket holder for 35 years, attending games through winning and losing seasons. He was a gifted athlete himself, a basketball star for South Hadley High School who lead his team to their first ever small school tournament. In 1945, he was Western Massachusetts' top scorer; and his children and grandchildren loved perusing his scrapbooks and listening to his stories about the game he loved.  A decorated Marine Veteran of three wars, Len took great pride in his 22 years of service to his country as a Master Gunnery Sergeant.  He served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. His decorations included: Navy Commendation Medal from the Secretary of the Navy with Combat; Navy Unit Citation; Good Conduct Medal with one Silver and one Bronze Star; World War II Victory Medal; National Defense Service Medal with one star; Korean Service Medal with two Combat Stars; United Nations Service Medal; Vietnam Service Medal with two Combat Stars; Korean Presidential Citation. After retiring from the Marine Corps, Len worked for the Department of Employment and Training for 20 years as a claims coordinator. His retirement years were filled with a love and joy for sporting events, travel, gardening, local theater and arts, and above all else family happenings.  Len has been at the heart of the lives of his six children, 15 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.  He leaves two sons Norman of Portland, Oregon and David and wife Christine.  Len leaves four daughters whom he called "my girls": Karen and husband Marty Couture of South Hadley; Donna and husband Craig Hutton of Belchertown; Denise and husband Greg Klouda of Lancaster; Mary and husband Bill Couture of Chicopee.  Len's 15 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren were a steady presence in his life and brought him joy and laughter. Len's family is heartbroken but profoundly grateful for the memories they share of their dad and grandpa. Leonard was a man of deep faith; and his faith was a source of strength through many of the health challenges he faced, finding grace and resilience during the most difficult times. The celebration of Leonard's life and the Christian Burial will be Wednesday morning at Saint Patrick's Parish in South Hadley at 10:00 am followed by burial at St. Rose Cemetery in South Hadley. Calling hours will be Tuesday from 4 to 7 at Curran O'Brien Funeral Home, Lamb Street, South Hadley. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Shriner's Hospital for Children, 516 Carew Street, Springfield, MA. For more details please go to curranobrien.com.