NEW GLOUCESTER — Francis E. Gauthier cherished husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully at home in New Gloucester on Friday, June 28.

Francis was born in Rumford, Dec. 10, 1921, to Emile Gauthier and Annie Bedard Gauthier. He attended local schools and graduated from Stephens High School.

During World War II, Mr. Gauthier served in the Army Air force with the 33rd Photo Reconnaissance Squadron. As an airplane mechanic, Francis specialized in supporting B-25, P-38 and P -39 aircraft. He was honorably discharged in 1945, after serving three years in European theater.

Francis was a long-time resident of Rumford, where he founded the Linoleum Shop with his father-in-law. He operated the business for 30 years. His workmanship is still present in many of the town’s public buildings. Francis was married for 63 years to Marie-Therese Routhier. Together they raised two daughters. As a family they spent many happy summers at “the camp” on Worthley Pond.

In 1980, Francis was selected to officiate at the Lake Placid Olympics. His time working at the Olympics was a long standing, cherished memory.

Francis enjoyed a very active retirement. He traveled extensively in the U.S. and Europe visiting family and participating in squadron reunions. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed biking, canoeing and cross country skiing. A favorite summer pastime was picking berries and he was famous for his strawberry pies. For many winters, Francis was an active volunteer with the Chisholm Ski Club.

Francis is survived by his wife, Marie-Therese Routhier of New Gloucester; his daughter, Anne Gauthier-Maurice and her husband, David Maurice, of New Gloucester; his daughter, Paula Gauthier of New Gloucester; his grandchildren, Janessa and Brent Maurice of Portland; his great-grandson, Colby; his sisters, Gloria Flynn of Rumford, Pauline Polonski of Red Bank, N.J., and Louise Levy of Hackensack, N.J.; and his brother, Emile Pete Gauthier of Havelock, N.C.

The family would like to thank Pauline Bowie for her compassionate care during the last year and a half of Francis’ life.