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Lawrence H. Gauthier

Posted By Sobering Funeral Chapel On March 15, 2022 @ 11:02 am In Obituaries | 44 Comments

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our father Lawrence (Larry) at the age of 89. After a short but valiant fight with Cancer our dad was reunited with the love of his life, Annette on March 2, 2022. He will be dearly missed by their three children, Keith (Huguette) Gauthier, Kathy (Dwight) Dietrich and Phil (Pearl) Gauthier. Grand children, Danielle, (Justin) Pichor, Dylan and Lucas Dietrich, Tessa Gauthier (Steph). Great grandchildren, Ella and Jack. Dad was predeceased by his parents William and Annie, his brothers George, Alfred, Maurice and his youngest brother Dominic, who passed only days before he did.

Dad was born in Fitzroy Harbour, near Ottawa, Ontario, and was the oldest of 5 brothers. He grew up in Wolf Lake, Quebec with his parents and grandparents close by. Like many in those days he was exposed to hard work at an early age and developed a work ethic that stayed with him throughout his life. He worked numerous construction and mining jobs in his early years and met our mom, Annette while working in Niagara Falls in 1956. Three children came along shortly afterwards, and like many young couples in those days, they had their struggles and had to fight hard for permanent work and a good place to bring up us kids. One of our favourite stories will always be how he did get that first break. After jumping onto a staff bus, driven by his brother George, and slipping through security, he presented himself to the lady in HR at AECL in Chalk River, ON. He asked that his resume be considered for the upcoming job in operations. Dad said she nodded, smiled and dug through the huge pile of resumes until she finally found his and placed it on the top of the pile. We’re not sure if it was his charm, good looks or both, but it paid off, as he was hired by AECL shortly after in January, 1960.

Dad was part of a group of AECL employees that were given the opportunity for a new life in a brand-new town. He took that opportunity and moved the family to Pinawa, Manitoba in 1964, where he and mom stayed until mom’s illness forced them from their home of nearly 50 years. Dad’s next love after mom was simply being outdoors. He hunted, fished, and taught us what “real” camping was, which meant taking nasty back roads miles back in the bush where we camped on a beautiful, secluded lakes without amenities or another human for miles. These childhood memories were the absolute best and will stay with us forever. Dad (and mom) were the epitome of a Canadian hockey parent, constantly traveling to games, practices, and figure skating events. Dad was a great fixer and carpenter, he built his own boat, a BIG boat! More great memories, we had some great family times in that boat. Dad worked tirelessly on the Trans Canada Trail system and Pinawa’s cross country ski trails, grooming, clearing, maintaining and helped build the two cabins still in use on these trails. He was presented with a number of outstanding volunteer awards over the years for his hard work and dedication. Dad was also a true motorcycle enthusiast, he loved to go for rides with his boys and went on numerous cross-country trips. He continued to ride into his mid 80’s before he finally parked the motorcycle for good. And even though we all agreed that it was time, dad missed his motorcycle right to the end. Dad not only helped maintain the local ski trails for years but was an avid cross-country skier himself. He entered and won numerous senior ski races throughout the province in his sixties and could still “kick butt” (and he did) on the ski trails even at 80 years of age. Dad became an avid golfer in his late 40’s, and like everything else he set out to accomplish, became very good at it. He and mom very much enjoyed the game and went on a numerous golf excursions. After the move to Selkirk dad continued to play 2 or 3 times every week with his sons and was quite proud of the fact that even at the age of 89, he could still shoot a score that matched his age. He loved the game so much that he would sometimes play 2 or 3 days in a row. And if the boys were unavailable for an outing, he would go by himself. We were amazed at his drive and the ability to do some of the things he did at his age, and apparently, we weren’t alone. Shortly after dad passed, the manager at dad’s apartment block said that dad was a bit of a legend to the folks there. Apparently, they were intrigued by this impressive 85+ fellow, driving around in his spotless Cadillac, playing golf, still driving a motorcycle and out and about more evenings than he was home. Dad rarely turned down a dinner invitation with family and he never sat around for any longer than it took to watch the last round of a golf major or Jets game. We learned quickly that even insinuating that he should consider slowing down a bit went absolutely nowhere. He would just smile and say, I’ll let you know when I’m ready to slow down.

Dad was a great father and a great husband, and most importantly, he was a good man.  He was loved and he will be dearly missed.

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the incredible staff at Selkirk Hospital. Cory, Jess, Danielle, Jody and others. We’re sorry that we can’t name you all, but please know how much we appreciated the kindness, and compassion you showed for dad and us through this difficult time.

As per dad’s wishes, his ashes will join mom’s at Pinawa Cemetery and there will be family service at a later date.

www.soberingfuneralchapel.com

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Condolence from The Biddiscombes on March 15th, 2022 11:37 am

We are so sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. He will be missed by many people. We think of him often when we pass his home in Pinawa. Go with God. The Biddiscombe’s

Condolence from Louise Daymond on March 15th, 2022 4:00 pm

Larry was one of a kind; a true gentleman with a kind, caring heart. I had enormous respect for him and valued his opinion greatly.
Our hearts go out to you and yours, Keith, Kathy and Phil. You’ve got so many incredible memories to help ease your pain, and endless stories to share with your grandchildren.

Louise and Don

Condolence from Rosanne on March 15th, 2022 4:31 pm

Dear Keith and family
Our sincerest sympathy to you and your family.
Cherish the memories.
Brian & Rosanne Chelack

Condolence from Cheryl Ryan on March 15th, 2022 4:44 pm

Deepest condolences to the family. Larry was a great fellow who made people smile all the time.

Condolence from Bill Goertzen on March 15th, 2022 4:46 pm

My condolences to Larry’s family. I will miss him we had many good rounds of fun golf at Mars.

Condolence from The Oliveira family on March 15th, 2022 5:06 pm

Condolences to you all. Larry was indeed a great man who was always willing to lend a helping hand.
He was blessed with an incredible loving family who we are sure he treasured every day. It was always great to chat with him. Our thoughts are with you at this time of loss.

Condolence from Gary Hanna on March 15th, 2022 5:09 pm

My sincere condolences to Larry’s family. Larry was true Country Gentleman. The big city was not for him. I had the pleasure of working with Larry on many a volunteer project. His dedication to all things Pinawa was incredible. Larry was great guy to have coffee with at the club very knowledgeable and well respected. God bless and RIP Mon Amis.
Gary Hanna
I hope the community provides a memorial for Larry his volunteerism was multi dimensional

Condolence from doreen backer on March 15th, 2022 5:24 pm

Larry and family came to Pinawa in 1964 along with Harry and I and many others from Chalk River, there were many challenges along the way and there are many stories to be told. So many good memories we shall
never forget. Our hearts are heavy for all the family.
Take care
Doreen and Harry

Condolence from Sheri on March 15th, 2022 9:36 pm

Mom adored them both!

Condolence from Fay Campbell on March 15th, 2022 5:48 pm

To Keith,Kathy and Phil
So very sorry to hear of your dads passing. He was a good friend and I have many good memories of golf games and parties we had together. He will be greatly missed by so many. Fay Campbell

Condolence from Diane and Alain Parent on March 15th, 2022 5:49 pm

Our deepest condolences to you and your families. Your dad was a good man always kind when we hung by the house when our moms would have their coffee. When I moved away I would insist to visit your parents before leaving town.

Condolence from Colin Brown on March 15th, 2022 6:53 pm

Very sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Gauthier. Our thoughts are with Keith, Cathy and Phil and their families at this difficult time. It sounds like your Dad packed a whole pile into life and did it with style. Love the fact he lived life on his terms. Take good care, Colin, Catrina and Sandy Brown

Condolence from Janet Lamb. on March 15th, 2022 7:02 pm

Sincere condolences to the family. I always enjoyed our motorcycle rides for ice cream. He was such a kind man.
Janet lamb.

Condolence from Larry Meyer on March 15th, 2022 7:36 pm

My Condolences to Larry’s Family and as I read this, a celebration to a life well-lived. I had the pleasure of working with Larry on shift for many years. Larry was always a role model for others, the bearer of high standards, friendliness, and good cheer. There were many times at the plant when Larry unselfishly helped me learn the ropes. My wife Dorothy and I would hang out on occasion with Larry and Annette and always enjoyed the company. Rest in Peace my friend,

Larry Meyer

Condolence from Dave Peterson on March 15th, 2022 7:43 pm

My sincere condolences to the Gauthier family. So sorry to hear of your loss.

Condolence from Patty Drew on March 15th, 2022 8:30 pm

This world has lost a kind, caring gentleman. Larry will be remembered as a genuinely good man. My heartfelt sympathy to Keith, Kathy, Phil and families.

Condolence from Jerry Martino on March 15th, 2022 10:50 pm

Our condolences to the Gauthier families. We were so sorry to hear about Larry’s passing.

Sheila and I were part of the group that came to Pinawa from Chalk River in 1964 along with the Gauthier family and several others. We will always remember our times playing in the Golf Club’s opening and closing scrambles with Larry and Annette. Those were fun times that we will always cherish. I was also a member of the senior golfing group that included Larry. We spent may a great time during those golf mornings kibitzing during the games that I fondly remember.

Condolence from Kathy (Zwingel) Patterson on March 15th, 2022 11:14 pm

Keith, Kathy and Phil: I am so terribly sad to hear of your dad’s passing. I have such wonderful memories of both of your parents; they always welcomed me into their home with such warmth and love. Please know that you are all in my prayers for peace and comfort.
Kathy

Condolence from ron and barbara mcdowall on March 16th, 2022 9:37 am

to the gauthier family …deepest syathy to all of you at this time both your mom and dad were great people…….. blessings to all

Condolence from Kim on March 16th, 2022 10:49 am

Know that we are thinking of everyone and send our deepest condolences. We know your Dad will be truly missed. Love Kim & Derrick

Condolence from Susan and Lloyd Rattai on March 16th, 2022 12:26 pm

Susan and I are saddened by the news of Larry’s passing. We came to Pinawa in 1965 and began the many years of fun and friendships that was life in this new town. Working shift opened up close bonds and opportunities for fishing trips, hunting and basement parties. When I began to build my home in Pinawa, Larry was there to help with the work and knowledge. Later we both began building our cabin cruiser’s. The amount of volunteer time that Larry put in on the trails, cabins and other project’s shows the dedication he had to his community. His family must be proud.

Condolence from Al and Shirley Nelson on March 16th, 2022 12:52 pm

A true friend, a best pal, everyone’s loss. Condolences to the family

Condolence from Robert Dixon on March 16th, 2022 12:53 pm

My sincere condolences to the Gauthier family on their loss. Larry was a true gentleman and Annette a true lady. They were a perfect match. I was proud to have them as friends during my time in Pinawa and beyond. The world is in poor shape but it is worse without Larry in it. He was a genuinely good guy who will always be remembered with fondness.

Condolence from The Herriot Family on March 16th, 2022 3:27 pm

Dear Uncle Keith and Tante Huguette,
What a beautiful tribute to a life well-lived. From our family to yours, we send you our most heartfelt condolences. May happy memories ease the pain of loss.
Hugs!
AJ, Chantal, Jack and Kathleen

Condolence from Albert and Sharon Chasse on March 16th, 2022 3:31 pm

It is with a sad heart that I read this. Larry was the best; a man of honor and filled with love for his family. I know how much he missed Annette, now he is at her side as they explore heaven together.
God Bless his soul and may the memories keep everyone filled with the thoughts of their special moments together.

Condolence from Maureen Burns on March 16th, 2022 3:34 pm

Such a beautiful tribute. I always thought it was so cool to have an older cousin like him. Our McCann family thought the world of him. He will be missed

Condolence from Alf Wikjord on March 16th, 2022 4:31 pm

Sincere condolences to Keith, Kathy and Phil and their families. Larry was a close neighbour, a true gentleman, a trailblazer and a dedicated volunteer.

In the 1980s and 90s, my family and I accompanied Larry to many ski competitions to all corners of the province. He excelled in the master-class events of the Provincial Cross Country Ski Championships and the Manitoba Winter Games.

For many years, he was an inveterate volunteer for the Whiteshell Ski Club. He maintained the equipment (i.e., all-terrain vehicles, snowmobiles, track-setters, mowers, brush-cutters and chain saws) needed to groom the trails in the fall; haul firewood to the cozy rest stops (i.e., the cabins that he helped build); and set the tracks in the winter. I have many fond memories of bushwhacking and skiing adventures with him on the 45-km network of cross-country ski trails.

He was also a relentless volunteer for the Trans Canada Trail. For almost two decades prior to moving to Selkirk, he organized crews twice a year, at the end of June and the end of August, to remove of dead-fall and mow the 25-km Pinawa section of the TCT extending from the Seven Sisters Dam to the Old Pinawa Provincial Heritage Park.

Thanks, Larry, for all you did for our fair town and the wonderful memories!

Condolence from Ron & Linda Oberick on March 16th, 2022 5:02 pm

Our condolences to the Gauthier family. May wonderful memories as a family give you peace and comfort.

Condolence from Pat & Joan Mills on March 16th, 2022 5:29 pm

Larry was one of the men I first worked with at AECL. It is hard to express the respect and admiration I had for the man who was so kind and helpful to a new recruit. Those attributes did not change as time went on. Larry truly was a GOOD man.
God rest his soul.

Pat Mills

Condolence from Les and Teresa Demeria on March 16th, 2022 6:06 pm

We never got to see your Dad that much, mostly at family events. We always liked the way you’re Dad took the time to come over and sit and have a conversation with us . He was always easy to talk to and you just knew he was interested in what you had to say. He was a great guy, and will surely be missed by everyone who knew him. Our sincere condolences to all of the family.

Condolence from Kirk Haugen on March 17th, 2022 7:33 am

Keith, Kathy, Phil and Gauthier families….so very sorry to hear of your father‘s passing. Such a wonderful and caring man.

Condolence from Dennis and Shirley Cann on March 17th, 2022 11:14 am

My most vivid memory of Larry was from the swaying bouncing back of a large semi-amphibious ATV vehicle. He was hauling a group of us out to work on the Red cross-country ski cabin. No pond was too deep, no log too large or rock ridge too steep for him not to attempt crossing as we hung on for dear life. A great volunteer and a greater man. Our deepest condolences.

Condolence from Carl Sabanski on March 17th, 2022 11:59 am

Dear Gauthier Family:

Larry was truly a gentleman and he will be missed. Annette was the perfect match for him
as well.

With respect- Barbara and Carl Sabanski- Pinawa

Condolence from Maggie on March 17th, 2022 12:11 pm

Condolences to Keith, Kathy and Phil and families on the passing of your father.You are in our thoughts.
Maggie and Don Brincheski

Condolence from Ray and Carol Wazney on March 17th, 2022 1:41 pm

Sincere condolences to the Gauthier family. Carol and I are so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. I have known Larry since the early days of Pinawa. I’ve always admired him for being so active in our community, and being so supportive of all of his family’s activities. In recent years I have enjoyed golfing with him in our senior men’s golf group. May God bless you and your families in this difficult time of loss.

Condolence from Jay Hawton on March 17th, 2022 1:55 pm

A wonderful man leaving such great memories to all in Pinawa. Our deepest condolences to the family and friends who treasure the time he had with us.
Jay and Bernice Hawton

Condolence from Myrna Tiede on March 18th, 2022 9:19 pm

Heartfelt condolences to Keith, Cathy, Phil and families.
Larry was an awesome man and we were truly fortunate to have Larry and Annette as neighbours.
May memories of Larry and a life well lived bring you comfort as you grieve.
Myrna and Robert Tiede

Condolence from Gail Schatzlein on March 19th, 2022 7:17 pm

Dear Gauthier ‘kids’ Keith, Cathy and Phil
So sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. Both he and Annette were strong gold threads in the fabric of Pinawa from the start. I first met Annette while working at the Bay in the late 60’s and Larry as her husband. Larry’s motorcycle love brought many smiles to our family and guests when Keith and/or Phil presented at Ron’s wedding in Cranbrook, BC back in 1983. I can’t remember – more than one motorcycle (I was busy giving my child away.). I can’t pass the Gauthier house without smiling.

Condolence from Jeff and Sherry Seifried on March 23rd, 2022 6:55 pm

Our condolences to Keith,Kathy,Phil and their spouses and children. What a wonderful tribute for a wonderful man. Thinking of you all at this time of sorrow. Know your father is at peace now as he has been reunited with your wonderful mother.

Condolence from Craig Matson on March 24th, 2022 6:55 pm

So sorry to see the passing of your dad. As little I knew him he enjoyed being with you guys. Deepest regrets, sure will miss him a ton.

Condolence from steve taylor on March 26th, 2022 11:53 am

Sad news. Happy trails Mr. Gauthier.

Condolence from Tim Olchowy on March 29th, 2022 12:54 pm

Very sorry to hear of you dad’s passing. Memories of many weekends of Larry (and my dad) taking us to hockey games around eastern Manitoba. Tim

Condolence from Gus Powaschuk on April 23rd, 2022 4:27 pm

our sincere condolences to the Gauthier family. For sure your dad was an awesome person.
Gus and Verna Powaschuk

Condolence from Cynthia Spadafora on August 8th, 2022 6:27 pm

A belated message of condolences to the family…

What a lovely, touching tribute to your father. I am so sorry for your loss. I have fond childhood memories of your Dad, my Dad Maurice along with their brothers, our uncles (Alfred, George & Dominic) having a good laugh, and the shenanigans that would ensue! Uncle Larry was a one of my favs (to be honest all my uncles were my favs ).

Sending the family love & hugs,
from Cynthia (Cindy) Spadafora (nee Gauthier) respectfully representing the Maurice Gauthier Family.

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