Robert J. Gauthier, 80, of Munising, Mich., and Bokeelia, Fla., passed away Thursday, August 4, 2011, at Oscar G. Johnson VA Medical Center, Iron Mountain, following a brief illness. He was born February 6, 1931, in Detroit, Mich., son of the late Edward and Lucille (Pepin) Gauthier. Robert was raised in Munising and graduated from Mather High School, Class of 1949. He married Sue Matson September 11, 1954. She survives. After graduation, Robert enlisted in the United States Army, serving during the Korean War. He was wounded, which resulted in the loss of his leg. Robert spent two years at Percy Jones VA Hospital. On March 9, 2001, Robert was awarded his purple heart for being wounded in the Korean War. It was presented to him by his grandson Greg Byrus, which meant a lot to him. He also received the Combat Infantryman, Army, First Award; the National Defense Service Medal; United Nations Service Medal; Korean Service Medal; the Good Conduct Medal; and three Bronze Service Stars. After his honorable discharge, he enrolled at Northern Michigan University and received a Bachelor Degree in Education. Robert taught at Mather High School from 1956 to 1966, before moving to Florida where he taught for two years before becoming an assistant principal at Fort Myers Middle School. He held this position until retiring in 1986. Robert received his Master Degree from the University of South Florida. He was a life member of the American Legion and the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). Robert was an avid reader and also loved to fish. In addition to his wife, Robert is survived by two daughters, Diane (Bill) Byrus, Alva, Fla., Christina (Glenn) Brock, Fort Myers; three sons, Robert R. (Robbie) Gauthier, Munising, Mich., Paul (Audrey) Gauthier, Oakton, Va., Daniel (Al) Gauthier, Cape Coral, Fla.; four sisters, Betty Stock, Charla Younk, Zella (Ron) Greb, Joan (James) Anderson; one brother-in-law, Fred (Carol) Matson; eleven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, Phyllis Eiseman; five brothers, Donald, Francis, Harold, Leland, and Daniel. A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 13, 2011, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the "FARM", E-8124 M94S for family and friends. The American Legion Alger County Honor Guard will accord military honors at the service. You may light a candle in remembrance of Robert or leave a condolence for his family at www.JacobsFuneralHomes.com. The Jacobs Funeral Home, Iron Mountain, is serving the family.