Sandra 'Sandy' Kaye Gauthier

MADISON, Wis. - Sandra "Sandy" Kaye Gauthier, 75, passed away on July 24, 2024, at UW-Madison Hospital in Madison, after a short battle with lymphoma. Her husband and four children were by her side.

Born on Dec. 24, 1948, in Ironwood, Michigan, Sandy was cherished as a wife, mother, grandmother, niece, sister and friend. Her life was a beautiful testament to love, dedication and community spirit.

Sandy's journey of love began on June 3, 1972, when she married Charles Gauthier. They met at Sandy's cousin's wedding reception and quickly fell in love. Together, they built a beautiful life in the Lac du Flambeau community, where they raised four wonderful children. Sandy was not only a devoted mother but also a significant part of the family businesses, which spanned electrical, cable TV, real estate and more.

After graduating from Luther L. Wright High School in 1967, Sandy pursued her passion for beauty at a school in Duluth, Minnesota. She began her career as a cosmetologist in Ironwood, and later worked various jobs in the community, including as a dental assistant and in administrative positions. However, her true calling was being a full-time mom, a role she embraced wholeheartedly while raising her children.

Sandy took great pride in her long-standing contribution as a columnist for the Lac du Flambeau section of the Lakeland Times, where she shared stories and news with the community for over 25 years.

Sandy's deep love for her family was evident in every aspect of her life. Becoming a mother was her greatest joy and accomplishment. She very much enjoyed moments spent with her husband, children and grandchildren, often baking treats, playing board games and creating cherished memories. Sandy's kindness, love, and unwavering dedication left an indelible mark on everyone she knew.

An active and dedicated community member, Sandy was involved in the Lac du Flambeau Women's Club; founded the Girl Scouts at the Lac du Flambeau Grade School; and volunteered extensively at the school, including initiating Project Charlie. Sandy also participated on the Lac du Flambeau Library Board. Sandy loved her community and was very proud of the Native American culture and traditions. Her commitment to helping others also led her to volunteer at the local hospital, where she was always eager to lend a helping hand.

Sandy is lovingly remembered by her husband, Charles Gauthier; her children, Stacey (Ryan) Gillis, Frank Gauthier, Tara (Dan) McCallum and Bradley (Rubie) Gauthier; her adored grandchildren, Jamey Soulier, Jayden Soulier, Ian McCallum, Kate McCallum, Lainey McCallum, Lauren McCallum, Sophia Gauthier and Zeno Gauthier; her sisters, Carol (Jim) Zak and Arlene (Kyrle) Hilgendorf; her brother, Gary Sell; her beloved Aunt Marilyn and Uncle Ron; and many cherished cousins, nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; grandparents; and her sister, Lori.

A memorial service celebrating Sandy's life will be held on Friday, Aug. 2, at Nimsgern Funeral Home in Woodruff. Visitation will take place from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., followed by the service at 11:30 a.m., with a lunch reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Lac du Flambeau Public Library.

Sandy's warmth, love, and dedication to her family and community will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Online condolences may be shared at http://www.nimsgernfuneral.com. Nimsgern Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.