Donald R. Gauthier, 87, lifelong resident of Traverse City passed away Monday, January 28, 2013 at Munson Hospice House in Traverse City.

Donald was born on September 9, 1925 to the late Leo and Rose (Bosse) Gauthier in Traverse City, MI. Don answered the call of duty, proudly serving his country with the United States Navy during World War II in addition to his 17 years with the United States Army post World War II.

Don entered into marriage with the former Charlotte Elise Plaat on November 17, 1954 in her home country of Germany. The two had a loving marriage spanning 44 years until her passing on June 28, 1999.

Don was an active and instrumental part of VFW Cherryland Post #2780, Marine Corp League - Yagle Brothers Detachment #165, Masonic Lodge in Acme, and the Shriners organization out of Grand Rapids. He was a former Boy Scouts of America Leader based out of the Cherry Knoll School as well as in Germany.
Don enjoyed collecting coins and stamps and was even the President of the Coin Club from 1994 to 1997. He was an avid sports fan from his years as a basketball star on his State Champion High School Team to cheering on his children and grandchildren. Don will be remembered for his patriotism, his attention to detail, as a loving and supportive family man, and as a friend.

Donald is survived by his daughters, Linda R. Gauthier of Traverse City, Ursula (Bryce) Gilmore of Libertyville, IL, Heather (Steven) David of Freeport, TX, seven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, sister, Alice Smith, daughter-in-law Dagmar Gauthier and many other loving family members and friends.

Donald was preceded in death by his wife, Charlotte in 1999, sons, Richard Gauthier in 1993, and Leo Gauthier in 2003, sisters, Victorine Nowak, Georgiana Wade, Delores Yagle, Leona Darga and Rita Holcomb; brothers, Clarence Gauthier and Robert Gauthier.

Memorial services will take place at 11 A.M. on Saturday, February 9, 2013 at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, with Military Honors provided by the VFW Cherryland Post #2780 Honor Guard.

Private grave-side committal services will be held in Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens in the spring.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Alzheimer's Association