George T. Gauvin

George Theodore Gauvin died on Saturday, June 11, 2011, in Kewaskum, WI, at the age of 100.

George was born on February 21st, 1911, to Leah (LeGault) Gauvin and Daniel Gauvin in Eau Galle, WI. He was the 8th of 11 children. On November 19, 1938, he married Elaine Shafer, and together they had one son, Daniel. The Gauvins initially made their home in Pontiac, MI, where George worked for the Pontiac Motor plant, and then moved to Spring Valley, WI, in 1945. They would remain in Spring Valley until 2005, when the Gauvins moved to Kewaskum, WI, to be closer to family.

Always a hard worker, George held many jobs in his lifetime, including work with the Civilian Conservation Corps in the early 1930s, working at the Pontiac Motor plant, and working on the construction of I-94 as a mechanic for Sweeney Brothers in Spring Valley. He also owned and operated a service station in Spring Valley. George retired in 1978 and spent his retirement years fishing, mowing the lawns and snow-blowing the walks of his neighbors, playing pool and cribbage at the Senior Citizen’s Center and Deb’s Cafe, and enjoying his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He and Elaine were married for 72 years until her passing in March of 2011. He will always be remembered for his kind heart, colorful stories, and love of his family and community.

George is survived by his daughter-in-law, June Gauvin of Kewaskum, WI; two granddaughters: Kathryn (Shawn) Vele of Milwaukee, WI, and Suzanne (Thomas) Abarca of Honolulu, HI; four great-grandchildren: Morgan and Madeline Vele of Milwaukee and Gabriella and Antonio Abarca of Honolulu; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Elaine, his son Daniel, his parents and all his brothers and sisters.

Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 15, 2011 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Spring Valley, WI. Burial will follow at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Spring Valley. Visitation will take place from 9 a.m. until time of service at the church on Wednesday.

Olson Funeral Home of Menomonie is serving the family.