Gauthier, Jean Fraser

Jeannie Fraser Gauthier peacefully passed away at her home in Clarksburg on October 16, 2023, at the age of 84.

She was born in the Almonte hospital on February 28, 1939, to the late William and Anna (nee Rose) Findlay of Carleton Place, Ont.  Jean was the beloved little sister to Bill (Betty Ann), Cate (John Fraser) and Peter (Sue).

In 1966, Jean married her love, Rene, and together they built a life centered around music, adventure, travel and family.  Jean was a dynamic and involved mother and good friend to her children Joel, Abby (Scott Whitton), and Fraser (Erin Carty).  She was also a beloved Granny to Athia, Findlay, Desmond and Spencer, providing them with granny advice and a place for a sleepover.

Jean was educated as a public school teacher and was an entrepreneur, starting the local Granary Health Food Store.  She also worked at the Courier Herald and gave much of her time volunteering at the BVO.

Jean’s legacy extends beyond her immediate family, touching the lives of many nieces, nephews and their families.  Her incredible network of loving friends and their families, as well as the friends of her children who often regarded her as a second mother, will always hold a special place in their hearts.

Jean embraced the past with elegance, class and grace, providing a connection to the beauty of yesteryear and bringing her calm and practical demeanour to every situation.  She was so active, always had a trip planned and a canoe or pair of skis at the ready.

She was the cool mom that you could always rely on for rides, good advice without judgment and became a part of every group.

One of Jean’s remarkable qualities was her enduring vitality and youthful energy, which often left those around in awe at her zest for life.  Her laughter and insatiable thirst for life were gifts she generously shared with all she encountered.

In remembering Jean, we celebrate a life well lived, filled with love, joy and countless beautiful memories.  She will continue to inspire and comfort those who were fortunate enough to have known her.

Jean’s family will receive friends at the Ferguson Funeral Home in Meaford on Friday, October 20, 2023 from 4 until 7 p.m.

As your expression of sympathy, donations to the Meaford Hospital Foundation would be appreciated and may be made through the Ferguson Funeral Home, 48 Boucher St. E., Meaford, ON   N4L 1B9 to whom arrangements have been entrusted.   www.fergusonfuneralhomes.ca

Details

Friday, October 20, 2023
Visiting at the Ferguson Funeral Home in Meaford from 4 until 7 p.m.

Make a donation in memory of Jean Fraser Gauthier

Donations: Meaford Hospital Foundation
Donate with the following link(s)
https://mhfoundation.ca/donations-for-in-memorial-tributes/
Donate securely through Ferguson Funeral Home


Memories & Messages of condolence

  1. Gary & Sharon Long
    Wednesday, October 18, 2023

    Condolences to the Gauthier and Findlay families in the loss of their mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Jean was an amazing lady and will certainly missed in our community. Cherish the memories of Jean as I am sure there are many that will bring a smile to your face. RIP

    Reply
  2. Eleanor Shaw
    Wednesday, October 18, 2023

    Jeannie was the most wonderful friend I could ever have!
    My mind is filled with so many memories of our great adventures together.
    I will miss her so much and love her forever!
    Xo Elle

    Reply
  3. Randy & Sandra Pyatt
    Wednesday, October 18, 2023

    Dear Joel, Abby, Fraser and Family
    We are so saddened to read of your Mom’s passing today. She was a very special lady. Cherish the many wonderful memories you have. Share stories and photos as they help in times of grief.
    Hugs to all

    Reply
  4. Jo-Ann Murch
    Wednesday, October 18, 2023

    We were saddened to hear of Jean’s passing. What a beautiful obituary for a kind and wonderful lady. She will be missed by all who knew her.

    Kerry and Jo-Ann Murch and family.

    Reply
    1. Skip Wamsteeker & Jessica Goldsworthy
      Wednesday, October 18, 2023

      Jean was an exceptional woman. She touched so many lives and any who knew her are much better for it. She, along with Rene, gave us a safe haven, unconditional love and acceptance, and taught us what it means to enjoy life to the fullest. Her kindness, wisdom and effortless grace are things we can all hold close and remember her by. Our condolences to the Fraser and Gauthier families, and all who will miss her.

      Reply
  5. Laura Billings
    Wednesday, October 18, 2023

    Jean’s vitality made her seems much younger than her years. It’s difficult to believe she is gone. I will always have fond memories of spending time with her skiing, kayaking, playing ‘Words with Friends’ and card game (spoons), or just having a chat. She was a remarkable lady.

    My sincere condolences to the Fraser and Gauthier families in your loss.

    Laura Billings

    Reply
  6. Pam Green and Reg Martin
    Wednesday, October 18, 2023

    We have many great memories of Jean, from our first meetings working at the Hincks with Rene, to starting the Granary, and more recent “ ladies getaways” … always fun loving … yes with that zest for life….sincere condolences.

    Reply
  7. Lissa Buckler
    Wednesday, October 18, 2023

    Abby, Joel and Fraser, there aren’t words. I am in tears and disbelief, holding you all in my heart. Aunt Jean was my favourite Aunt and one who continuously inspired me to live with joy, and to be generous and welcoming.
    I am sending my love and am here for you all in anyway and at anytime,
    Lissa, Gavin and Lisla

    Reply
  8. Irene Webster / Ken Webster
    Wednesday, October 18, 2023

    Our condolences to Joel, Abby and Fraser and your extended families in the sudden loss of your Mom. Jean was such a fabulous lady and loved by all who knew her both young and old.
    The obituary of Jean is beautifully written and nicely expresses the person she really was in her life.
    May wonderful memories help to comfort you in your time of sorrow.

    Reply
  9. Kelly Collier
    Wednesday, October 18, 2023

    Jean’s zest for life and vitality inspired me daily. She was also a joy to be around, you could not help but be charmed by her. Like most people, I was shocked by her passing. The world has lost an amazing soul and it feels as if we’ve all lost a best friend. Sending so much love to the Gauthier and Findlay families.

    Reply
  10. Susan Jemmett
    Wednesday, October 18, 2023

    My sincere sympathy to Jean’s family. I thought of Jean as a fun competitor on the pickleball courts. Lots of good shots with lots more laughter! I’m sorry that we never got to cross country ski though. Rest in peace Jean. You will be missed!!

    Reply
  11. Gilles and Donna Letourneau
    Wednesday, October 18, 2023

    Donna and I enjoyed playing pickleball with Jean, she was such a pleasant person
    Gilles and Donna Letourneau

    Reply
  12. Sandy FRaser
    Wednesday, October 18, 2023

    Very sad to hear about our tennis friend Jean
    I spoke to her a couple times after thanksgiving so knew she was not feeling well but thought she would be fine to play tennis with us the following Monday
    Jean never wanted to let anyone down even when she wasn’t feeling well !
    Jean will be truly missed by me and all the rest of the tennis ladies.
    Rest is peace my friend

    Reply
  13. Joan Hutton & family
    Wednesday, October 18, 2023

    My condolences to Joel, Abby & Fraser and extended families. The obituary was truly who Jean was and she will be missed.

    Reply
  14. Janet Tolton
    Wednesday, October 18, 2023

    Heartfelt condolences to Abby and the Gauthier connection. I have heard we can honour those who are gone by being what we loved most about them. I will try and be an open and relaxed host with a twinkle in my eye, ready to be in on the joke.  Thanks for the great late nights Jean. ❤️

    Reply
  15. Bonnie Hammond
    Wednesday, October 18, 2023

    Joel, Abby, Frazier & families – I was so sad to hear of your Mom’s passing – she was a ‘lady’! I know that you have wonderful memories of her that will help you through this difficult time!! Bonnie Hammond

    Reply
  16. Ruth Scheel
    Thursday, October 19, 2023

    Our condolences to the Gauthier family. We first meet Jean when the family moved to Thornbury. Jean was always willing to participate in any adventure. Her and Rene always made you welcome no matter when you dropped in. We shared many good times as our families grew up. In our retirement years the ladies from “the Hincks” got together regularly for a few days always full of fun and laughter.
    Ruth and Fred

    Reply
  17. Peter Findlay
    Thursday, October 19, 2023

    Awww… A beautiful tribute to an amazing woman. Thanks for sharing.

    Almost exactly a month ago Aunt Jean was at the cottage on the Mississippi, her sleeves rolled up to help take out the dock – just as she had for most of the last umpteen years. I can’t believe she’s no longer with us.

    She really was the beloved little sister of her older sibs, the apple of her parents’ eyes, and the best mom and partner to her dear Rene. I’ll always remember her warm and lovely smile…

    Big hugs to Joel, Abby, and Fraser from Peter, Fran, Audrey, and Georgia. Xo

    Reply
  18. Doug & Denyse
    Thursday, October 19, 2023

    Dear Joel, Abby, Fraser and families,
    We were very sad to hear of Jean’s passing. Your mom was an inspiration by the way she could fit into any situation no matter the age group. She will be missed by you and the wider community as well. We hope the great memories and times you’ve had together will provide you with solace.

    Reply
  19. Ana Vitiello
    Thursday, October 19, 2023

    Sad sad news…I didn’t see Jean often, as I live in another country, but every time I did the feeling was of warmth and familiarity. She always had a wise and calm expression, yet she was full of energy, and it felt as if she was a superhero in disguise. I’m truly saddened that I won’t see her again. I hope she’s being welcomed by Rene and rests in peace, knowing she left behind a beautiful family and led a rich and consistent life. My condolences to all. I am sending love to her and the whole family.

    Reply
  20. Rosemary Gosselin
    Thursday, October 19, 2023

    Jean will be very much missed… so full of life and warmth, and a kindred spirit on the Pickleball courts. My heart goes out to all Jean’s family and many friends,
    Rosemary Gosselin

    Reply
  21. Jan Collier
    Thursday, October 19, 2023

    Sad news . I had wonderful memories growing up with the Gauthier family – canoe trips, the cottage in Meaford, Thanksgivings and New Years celebrations. Jean was always so easy to talk to and ready for an adventure. Big hugs to Joel, Abby and Fraser

    Reply
  22. Valerie Shaw
    Thursday, October 19, 2023

    Joel, Abbey, and Fraser. We are so very sorry to hear of Jeans passing. She was truly a
    Lady of adventure, full of life and warmth with the most beautiful smile. She will truly be missed in the community. Treasure the memories.

    Valerie, Trevor, Lori Shaw and family.

    Reply
  23. James Hindle
    Thursday, October 19, 2023

    Another Clarksburg much loved one passed on, may you be comforted and feel the love and support of this fine comunity.

    Reply
  24. Carol Rolph
    Thursday, October 19, 2023

    To Joel, Abby and Fraser,
    My heartfelt thoughts are with you and your families at this sad and difficult time, following the loss of of your dearest Mother. I was fortunate to be included with your parents and close friends, on one of their wilderness canoe/ camping trips in Quetico Provincial Park, as well as a trip to Greece, and many special times both at their home in Clarksburg and Father Point, Mississippi Lake. So many wonderful memories! I only hope that in time your personal memories, her legacy that includes her love for you and your families, her graciousness and inclusivity of all, will eventually give you peace. ❤️

    Reply
  25. Janette Scott
    Thursday, October 19, 2023

    Dear Joel, Abby, Fraser and families:
    We are very sad to hear of Jean’s passing.
    Jean was a true, kind friend and a very classy lady.
    Our family has many fond memories of the dinners we shared and a canoe trip filled with adventure.
    Affectionately,
    Don, Janette, Allan and Marie Scott

    Reply
  26. Cecile de Bretan
    Friday, October 20, 2023

    On behalf of all her friends at Live Life Fit, we will miss Jean dearly. She was an original member in our senior’s fitness class. Always willing to try new movements and push herself just that little bit more, her smile, spirit and inspiration will be truly missed. Jean was truly a “LEGEND”.
    Cecile & Team

    Reply
  27. David Beesley
    Friday, October 20, 2023

    My sincere condolences to the Gauthier family. Have many fond memories of good times with Jean and Rene. I am sure she will be missed by the community she loved so much.

    Reply
  28. Aunt Betty Ann
    Friday, October 20, 2023

    Dear Joel, Abby, Fraser and families,
    We have all lost a wonderful person. Your mom was a true friend, kind, helpful and fun to be with.

    I first met your mom when she was a teenager in high school. She had no shortage of friends and loved to spend time out of doors skiing, skating and paddling.

    Through the years our families have spent many summers together at Father Point and I hope we all will continue to enjoy this wonderful tradition.

    With love to you all

    Reply
  29. 'Aunt" Jean Halpenny
    Friday, October 20, 2023

    Dear Joel, Abby, Fraser and families
    As I sit here at three fifteen on Friday October 20, 2023, the time you are all together with thoughts of your mom, my heart is sad and I wish I could be with you.
    She was a true friend for many years and I will miss our chats especially her sense of humour.
    I know as time goes by you all will have many memories of happy times that will bring you comfort and support.

    Love to all ….

    Reply
  30. Janice Jarmain
    Friday, October 20, 2023

    My sincere condolences to Joel, Abby, Fraser and your family. I am one of those lucky people who met Jean through working with Rene at the Hincks. Over the years we stayed connected with many fun-filled “ladies week-ends”. I admired Jean’s calm presence, her wit, her energy and her many talents. She was just a wonderful person to be with and I am so grateful to have known her.

    Reply
  31. Jim and Fran Catton
    Friday, October 20, 2023

    My sincere condolences. I just recently had a wonderful catch up with Jean at Duntroon Highlands after her golf game. It was wonderful to see her and have a chat as we didn’t cross paths very often. It is with heavy heart that I heard about her passing.

    Reply
  32. Sara Smith
    Saturday, October 21, 2023

    Joel, Abby, Fraser and extended Families.
    I was so saddened to read of your loss.
    Your Mom was such a wonderful lady. I hadn’t come across her much since my school days with Fraser, but she always had the brightest hello when we did meet.
    May her memory be a blessing.

    You are all in my thoughts.

    Reply
  33. Pj (Foley ) Millar
    Saturday, October 21, 2023

    In our thoughts and prayers . The Foley Family of Garson

    Reply
  34. Harold and Bev Ardiel
    Saturday, October 21, 2023

    Joel, Abby, Fraser and families,
    We were saddened to hear of Jean’s sudden passing. She will be missed by her family, and friends in so many circles.
    Jean was a lovely, friendly person who made you feel so comfortable in her presence.
    Our earliest memories of Jean, and Rene, go back many years, to when we were members of BVAA and were involved in many activities such as decorating for the annual figure skating carnival. They made the work so much fun!
    We are thinking of you all at this difficult time.

    Reply
  35. reg and mae lanktreee
    Saturday, October 21, 2023

    Sorry for your loss, she was a great lady. I worked with Jean at BVO

    Reply
  36. Norine and Garth Baron
    Sunday, October 22, 2023

    Abby, Joel and Fraser – We are so sad to have lost Jean – your mom. What a great tribute the obit was. Spot on! I am glad to have had a couple of good chats with Jean this past year. We were away from home on Friday Oct. 20 so unable to see you all at Fergusons – we will see you soon somewhere. Peace and great memories.

    Reply
  37. Leah McLean
    Tuesday, October 24, 2023

    Aunt Jean was such a ray of sunshine. As a kid, I remember feeling a sense of comfort and trust when I was with her. She was full of life and always encouraged me to have fun and work hard at my sports and other activities. I have great memories of going to see her, Uncle Renee and the family, enjoying delicious food and many laughs at their house during the holidays. My heart goes out to the whole family, I’m so sorry.
    She is greatly missed already.
    Let’s all remember to continue to share stories and talk about her to keep her memory alive. She will always be with us in our hearts and as her families guardian angel.
    Sending my love and support to the whole family.

    Reply
  38. June Snyder
    Friday, October 27, 2023

    I first met Jean many years ago at an upholstery class and we became friends.Since then,along with “ our gang”we have shared canoe trips,trips to the UK,Europe, and many holidays and New Year’s Eve’s.We even won Chlli contest along with “our gang”. My condolences to Joel,Frazier,Abby and all the families.Jean will be greatly missed.

    Reply

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