LEWISTON – Donald C. Gautier, 89, of Pride Road, Auburn died at Central Maine Medical Center Sunday, May 2.

He was born on Jan. 21, 1915, the son of Henry and Olive (Wilson) Gautier. Mr. Gautier was educated locally and graduated from Edward Little High School with the class of 1932, and later graduated from Bates College with the Class of 1936.

He joined the United States Army and as company commander led L Company of the 385th Regiment, 76th Infantry Division in the Final Liberation of Luxembourg and the advance into Germany. After the war, Mr.

Gautier joined the United States Army Reserves retiring as Colonel.

Mr. Gautier worked for the United States Postal Service and retired as Postmaster for the City of Auburn in 1972. He was a member of the Trinity Episcopal Church in Lewiston.

Mr. Gautier was a leader as early as his high school and college days having served as president of his class at both schools. He was past president of the Kiwanis Club, a member of the Auburn Development Corp., he was a fundraiser for the United Way, he served on the Board of Directors for the Y.M.C.A., and was a longtime member of the Auburn Coffee Club.

He enjoyed playing baseball and football for his Alma Mater’s and also enjoyed tennis, cross country skiing, hunting, and competing with the National Rifle Team. Mr. Gautier’s gentle side shone through whenever

there was a baby around that needed rocking. He especially enjoyed the time spent with his grandchildren and his great-grandchildren. He also enjoyed visiting and going to lunch with his many friends.

He is survived by his daughter, Margaret ” Peg ” Gautier of Old Orchard Beach; his son, Donald Gautier Jr. and his wife Patricia of Auburn; three grandchildren, Jennifer Johnson and her husband Michael of Portland,

Benjamin Gautier of Auburn, and Jonathan Gautier of Boston; and two great-grandchildren, Hunter and Matthew Johnson of Portland.

He was predeceased by his wife Margaret in 1997; his sister, Lila Hamilton; and brothers, Gerald and Robert Gautier.