Jack Gauthier

LITTLE LAKE, MI-Jack Allen Gauthier, 16, of Little Lake, Michigan, passed away on July 30, 2025 due to an accidental drowning, one day before his 17th birthday.
Born on July 31, 2008, to Billy Jack Gauthier and Nicole (Hytinen) Gauthier, Jack was an amazing young man whose love for his family and friends, infectious smile, witty humor, playful jokes and solid work ethic will leave an enduring legacy. Though his time was short, his light was infinite.
Jack poured his passion into everything he did and had several hobbies. He loved music and recently taught himself to play the guitar, accompanying his great singing voice. Jack thrived outdoors, riding his dirt bike, side-by-side, fishing, and camping. Construction became a future career plan, fueled by his joy in building cleverly hidden forts where his friends gathered.
An outstanding student, Jack earned nearly all A’s during his junior year at Gwinn High School. The Gwinn Wrestling Program was a vital part of his life, and his talent and strength on the wrestling mat ranked him amongst the top in the region last season. Jack earned praise at his job at Red Fox Run Golf Course and in every odd job he took on, consistently labeled as a dependable and hard worker by those who hired him.
Jack is survived by his parents; his sister, Brynlee Gauthier; his half-sister, Lauren Lamb (Chris Rossborough); his grandparents, Tina Marie and Dave Bartolovic, Jack (Ruby) Gauthier, and David K. Hytinen; his aunts, Amanda Gauthier and Amy Gauthier; his uncle, David W. Hytinen; his cousin, David R. Hytinen, and a vast extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins who shared countless cherished moments with him.
He was predeceased by his grandmother, Kathy Hytinen; great-aunt, Sharon Bodenus, and great-uncle, Terry Gauthier.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Jack’s friends, especially Robert LeMay and CeCe Peterson; to Little Lake Chapel; to the Forsyth Township first responders; to Amarah’s Light; and to the extraordinary Gwinn community, including cherished friends, family, local businesses, and neighbors, whose countless acts of kindness and love have been a lifeline for the family.
A celebration of Jack’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Little Lake Chapel, Little Lake, MI.
Jack’s love, laughter, and incredible spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished. ‘And I’ll love you ’til the day that I die.’-Zach Bryan
Canale-Gwinn Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting the family where memories may be shared at canalefuneral.com