It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Jean-Claude Gauthier of Longueuil, Quebec, on Tuesday, March 16, 2021, at the age of 90. He was predeceased by his parents, Jean-Louis Gauthier (former Mayor of Plantagenet and Warden of the United Counties of Prescott and Russell) and Cécile Ferland of Plantagenet, Ontario. He is also survived by his children Lyne (Yves Dessureault), Suzanne (Pierre Aubin), Jean and Michel (Mary-Jane Cabangunay). Cherished grandfather of Michel Rizkalla (Dr. Audrey Gilbert), David Marchitello (Vanessa Scalzo) and Christina Marchitello (Luca Carano); great-grandfather of Gabriel, Justin, Mason, Mia and Alessia. He will be fondly remembered by his sister Louise Gauthier McAuley, many relatives and dear friends.
After losing his sight in 1960, Claude began a 32-year memorable career with the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) working in Ottawa, Toronto, Sudbury and finally as the Regional Director in Regina, Sask. Colleagues described him as a mentor and a great listener. He enjoyed the camaraderie and projects as a long-standing Member and President of the Central Lions Club. Claude was a tireless fundraiser and guest speaker helping raise funds for countless projects related to vision loss, research, rehabilitation while being a voice and advocate for the handicapped in the community. He was proud to call the communities he served ‘‘Home’’. He was a member of the Executive Committee of the American Association of Workers for the Blind (AAWB). Claude received many awards during a long career and he continued to contribute in retirement as a member of the CNIB/INCA Board of Directors in Montreal.
Claude will be remembered as a resilient yet humble man of wisdom with an endearing personality and sense of humour. He leaves us with this message: “Remember to celebrate my life and all the good I did with my CNIB Family to help those less fortunate that face difficult challenges daily. One thing remains true, music brings people together and laughter is the best medicine.”
The family wishes to sincerely thank his extended CNIB family and those who supported his efforts.
Due to the current circumstances, a Private Family Funeral Service will be held at a later date at St. Paul Church in Plantagenet.
For those who wish, donations can be made in his memory to the CNIB Foundation, 2085, rue Parthenais, Montreal, Quebec, H2K 3T1 (telephone: 1-800-465-4622).
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Lamarre & Son Funeral Home, 453 St. Philippe Street, Alfred, Ontario, K0B 1A0, (613) 679-2802.
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2021
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Jean-Claude Gauthier 2021..
Maison Funéraire Lamarre & Fils
Décès pour la Ville:Alfred, Province: Ontario