Michael Gauthier

Mike joined our Heavenly Father on March 8th after a brief battle with cancer. Home was "right there! He could see it!"

Mike was born in Cranbrook B.C. to Steven and Phyllis Gauthier, the youngest of four siblings. As a child, he enjoyed outdoor adventures; biking, hiking, camping, and fishing with his brother Jim. He also loved to spend his days playing with the family dog, snowball.

Mike was an East Kootenay boy through and through with many fond memories of working out at Fort Steele Heritage Town and fighting wildfires up the Wildhorse.

The Kootenays continued to give when they introduced him to his first favourite girl, Jo-Anne.

Jo-Anne and Mike met at the College of the Rockies. Jo-Anne was always nice to Mike but "wasn't really looking for anything." It turned out that her kindness was no match for Mike's persistence and they were engaged a year later.

He had a creative spirit and a love for working with his hands. Through his art business, Sylcryst - named after his daughters, he crafted intricate wooden jigsaw pieces, often featuring beautifully detailed animals. When he wasn’t in his workshop, he enjoyed building model cars and relaxing with his coloring books.

Mike leaves behind a legacy of advocacy. Being born with Cerebral Palsy, alongside Jo-Anne they championed many fights for rights for those with disabilities. Mike was well known at Cranbrook City Hall and by the mayor for his frequent visits, passionately voicing concerns about the lack of accessibility in the city. His determination and persistence made a difference; leading to one of his accomplishments, the installation of a wheelchair lift at the Cranbrook Police Station, improving access for countless others.

Mike is survived by his wife of 38 years, Jo-Anne, and his daughters Sylvia, Christal (Jon), grandchildren Owen and Allison, and big brother Jim. He was predeceased by his parents Steven and Phyllis, and siblings Ken and Jean.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Cranbrook later this month.