Ralph Gauthier

After a long hard-fought battle with Parkinson’s, Col. Ralph Arthur Gauthier, USAF, Retired, 83, passed away peacefully on January 4th, 2020 in Niceville, FL. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Tish, and his parents, Horace Gauthier and Leona Kahler. He is survived by his sister, Nancy Pelker (Dennis) and his four children, John Gauthier (Beth), Renee Carlucci (Robert), Robert Gauthier (Teresa) and Steven Gauthier (Lynn). He is also survived by 12 grandchildren, Chelsea, Logan, and Jack Gauthier, Adrienne, Nick, and Julian Carlucci, Ashlie, Max, Madison, and Mason Gauthier, Jackie and Shane Gauthier, and 2 great grandchildren. Ralph was born in Detroit, Michigan on December 31, 1936.  After graduating from Salesian High School, Ralph applied for and was selected into the USAF Aviation Cadet Program. Ralph completed Navigator training and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the USAF. In the summer of 1958, Ralph met Tish, the love of his life. Ralph and Tish were married in 1959. After tours flying F-89 Scorpions and F-101 Voodoos, Ralph was selected for Pilot training and graduated at the top of his class. He retired from the Air Force with over 30 years of service and enjoyed a very successful second career as a realtor with Carriage Hills Realty. Ralph and his wife, Tish, were very active in Niceville. Ralph was involved in Kiwanis for many years. He and Tish loved the game of golf and built a home on the 18th hole at Rocky Bayou Country Club. Ralph was an active and dedicated member of Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church, frequently serving as an usher. A memorial mass is scheduled for Thursday, 9 January, 1 p.m. at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church, with a reception immediately following in the church hall. Father Stephen Voyt will officiate the ceremony. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Ralph's life.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ralph Gauthier, please visit our floral store.