Jacob F. Gauthier

Jacob Francis Gauthier was born in Winona, Michigan on May 24,1938, to parents Francis and Taimi Gauthier. He grew up in Winona, attended the Winona School and graduated as the Valedictorian of his class in 1956. He went on to join the Navy after graduation and served as a Weatherman on the USS Ranger. He then worked as a Navy Reserves recruiter for a short time.

In 1961, Jacob married Joy Harris. Daughter, Nicole and son, Brian were born of this union. Jacob and Phyllis (Ahola) Gauthier married in 1971, and remained united for 52 years until his recent passing on September 16, 2023. Daughters, PeriAnn and Michelle were born of this union. Jacob was active in the lives of all of his children and was very proud of them and their accomplishments.

Jacob and Phyllis raised their family in Ontonagon, Michigan. He was employed as a metallurgist at the White Pine Copper Mine for 24 years. After his time there he went on to own and operate Jake’s Snack Stop Service for 10 years. He then became the Community Service Coordinator for UPCAP in Ontonagon until his retirement in 2010. He was an active member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church of Ontonagon, where he served as an elder for many years.

Jacob built and resided in 3 different homes with his family throughout the years in Ontonagon. There was little he could not accomplish. He enjoyed woodworking and made many gifts for for his family members. He was also happy to help family and friends with home projects. He especially cherished building and bringing to life the wonderful projects that his wife dreamed up. After traveling throughout the western United States in their RV for several years, they purchased a home in Tucson, Arizona, making it their winter home in 2003. Jacob always loved animals and especially enjoyed having his dogs by his side throughout his life.

Jacob is survived by his wife Phyllis Gauthier, his children Nicole Gauthier, Brian (Mia)Gauthier, PeriAnn (Edward) Wasie, Michelle (David) Lee, his grandchildren Nicholas Gauthier, Mellisa Gauthier, Logan Wasie, Laura Lee, Sierrah Wasie, Brennah (Jack) Fenton, Gabrielle Lee, Jacob Gauthier, Evan Lee and great-granddaughter Mya Lee Walsh.

He was preceded in death by his mother Taimi Gauthier, father Francis Gauthier, brother Sherman Gauthier, and sister Greta Davis.

Jacob will be greatly missed by his family and friends, but they are comforted by the knowledge that he rests in the arms of Jesus his Savior.

Jacob’s funeral service will take place September 29, 2023 at 11:00 am at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ontonagon, Michigan. A light luncheon will follow the service. His burial will take place at the Rousseau Cemetery at 1:30 pm.