Obituary of Denis Gauthier

Denis Francis Gauthier, 76, of Norway Lake, Burnstown Ontario passed away peacefully on April 1st at home with his wife of 44 years, Betty, and his daughter Fauve. He spent his last days reminiscing about stories of his life with wonderful memories of travel and famous dinner parties with great family and friends.

Anyone who was fortunate to know Denis, will tell you of his big, wonderful laugh, his amazing artistic talent and his love for Betty & Fauve. Denis grew up in Ottawa surrounded by a large family and devoted parents Noah Bernard Gauthier of Gananoque and Mary Constance Gratton of Ottawa. Noah was an acclaimed kayaker in his youth and encouraged his children to follow him on the water. Denis and brother Paul spent many hours on the Ottawa River and at the Rideau Canoe Club on the Rideau River competing in the sport. Denis’ sisters, Mary O’Meara (Brian) of Belleville and Annmarie Davis of Smiths Falls (Andy) tell many fun stories of how they loved their older brother.

Denis attended Algonquin College in Ottawa in the architectural faculty and after graduation, joined Murray & Murray Architects in Ottawa. He had a sideline business building kit cars with his best man, Peter. He moved on to join Bell Canada’s architectural department where he made a significant contribution to their many properties, both large and small – most notably Place Bell Canada at 160 Elgin in Ottawa. He spent a stint in Saudi Arabia with Bell, supporting the rebuild of their telecommunications network. After 25 years with Bell, he and his family returned to their home region of Ottawa and eventually moved to their cottage at his favourite place, Norway Lake.

Denis had a second career as a Marshal at Calabogie Motorsports Park. He always raved about moving to Norway Lake fulltime, the township paved the road to the cottage and  a racetrack was built in Calabogie. He loved it there. Between the racetrack and F1 racing, he was in his element. His architectural projects carried on into his retirement as artistic accomplishments which included an 18’ tall Eiffel Tower made of cedar.

His family wishes to thank all the amazing medical professionals who supported him in his journey. 

Final arrangements for Denis have been entrusted to the

Pilon Family Funeral Home in Arnprior.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, May 7^th from 9:30 to 10:45.

A service to honour and celebrate Denis will be held in the Pilon Family Chapel on Wednesday morning at 11 o’clock.

The service will be webcast live for those unable to attend. (Click Here)

 A reception will follow.

In memory of Denis, kindly consider a donation to United Way East where he, Betty and Fauve contributed to many local charities.