Obituary of Roger Hubert Gauthier
The sun was shining on January 22nd, 2026 when Roger rejoined his beloved wife Dolly of 48 years in peace. With daughters Annette Gillan and Jennifer Gauthier at his side, they were honoured to return his love and care.
Fondly known as Pippi to grandson Morgan and son-in-law Paul Gillan, brother to Ron and his wife Helen, sister Valerie, and Uncle Roger to many.
In Roger’s final days he was able to choose the end that he desired, affirming that “it’s been a long road but a good road.”
Roger’s life has travelled down many roads. His early years in Windsor led him to a life serving in the Royal Canadian Navy where he “bounced around the North Atlantic” for 8 years.
One ship he served on was the HMCS Haida, now at the naval museum in Hamilton, Ontario. Roger married ex-wife Patricia and was blessed with son Micheal Shearer until their paths diverged. Roger returned to Ontario where he called Muskoka home for many happy years. Beaumont Drive in Bracebridge is where Roger and Dolly made their first house a home, welcoming friends and family alike. As a younger man, Roger enjoyed playing football, rec. hockey, boating, taking in a round of golf, and even curled on occasion. Courtesy of his cousins Maureen and Tony Pauling, Roger became an "Honorary" member of a golfing/curling group of gentlemen from the Toronto area called The P.I.G.'s Every February, this fun loving group of couples made their way to Muskoka where Roger and Dolly hosted the pre and post curling bonspiel party in their home. The good times continued each November when Roger and Dolly attended the Grey Cup party at the Murphy’s. As time passed Roger became an avid armchair athlete who never missed watching all of the big sporting events on TV. In 2018, Annette, Paul and Morgan took Roger to his first live NHL hockey game in Toronto.
Roger was a man of many talents and careers, but his favourite time was spent as Maintenance at Hockey Opportunity Camp near Sundridge. One highlight of his 14 years in Tool Rental at Home Depot Peterborough was being their Santa. Roger was happy to start enjoying his “Sunset years” when he retired at 77.
Roger was a handy neighbour and a welcoming father figure throughout his life. In recent years, he was appreciative of the company and care that family friend, Catherine Crowe provided. He especially enjoyed getting an Iced Capp, and going for a drive. The final years of “good road” spent being comfortably cared for by Jen. He always had a book on the go, enjoyed a good game of cards and going to the movies for the popcorn.
Many thanks for the exceptional care from PSW Angie, Community Paramedic Colby, Dr. Jon Archibald and the staff of Brookdale Family Clinic. Our family is grateful for the grace of Dr. Emily Hughes, Nurses Candice, Taryn and Ella of the PRHC Palliative Care Unit for the peace they ensured in Roger’s final days.
Arrangements have been entrusted to THE HENDREN FUNERAL HOME – LAKEFIELD CHAPEL. Cremation has taken place and Roger will be interred with Dolly at St. Thomas Cemetery in Bracebridge on July 12th, 2026. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to The PRHC Foundation by calling 705-652-3355 or by visiting www.hendrenfuneralhome.com.
Find Us
