Michael James (Mike) Gauthier's Obituary
Michael James Gauthier (Mike) passed away peacefully at his home on May 20, 2016 after a hard fought battle with cancer. Mike was born September 27, 1943 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He grew up in Sumter, South Carolina and graduated from Edmunds High School where he was a champion on the swim team. Upon graduation from Clemson University he entered the United State Air Force as a pilot where he served with distinction for 6 years including combat duty in Vietnam. Following his discharge from the USAF, Mike joined Federal Express in Little Rock, AR as a member of the original pilot staff prior to the company’s relocation to Memphis. He proudly served FedEx as a pilot for 31 years prior to his retirement as a Senior Captain in 2003.A longtime resident of Memphis, Mike was a supporter of many community activities. He was a recognized supporter of the Boys and Girls Club of Memphis and was Chairman of the Buckman Club in 2001. He was actively involved in Carnival Memphis as a member of the Krewe of Memphi where he was General Chairman in 2004.In addition to his civic activities, Mike loved to travel, enjoyed reading ad was an avid collector of over 300 First Edition books. He was also an accomplished athlete participating in many 10 K races, triathlons, and the bike races both at regional and national events. Although he was a proud alumnus of Clemson University, Mike was also an avid fan of Ole Miss football and had often been called a “A Walk-on-Rebel”. He is preceded in death by his parents Peggy and Robert Gauthier and his sister Patty Gauthier Station. Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Judy who was his soul mate for 35 years, his adored daughter Dee Dee, his stepson Reggie Frost and his precious four legged friends, Dachshunds Diva and Delta. He will be missed by his many friends who knew him by his ready smile, positive sense of humor and personal integrity. His personal motto was “Always take the high road”. The family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. Monday, May 23 with the Celebration of his life at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 24 all at Memorial Park Funeral Home. The Rev. Milton Carroll will officiate. Following the service family and friends are invited to the graveside service with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mid-South Chapter National Multiple Sclerosis Society, 214 Overlook Circle, Suite 153, Brentwood, TN 37027.Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery, 5668 Poplar Ave., Memphis TN 38119. (901) 767-8930. “Celebrating Life….Behind the Stone Wall.”
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