Michael Gouhin

1944 - 2025

Michael Gouhin
February 26, 1944 - October 23, 2025
Michael Anthony Gouhin, 81, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born in Ashtabula, Ohio to the late Joseph and Marguerite Gouhin, Michael was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend and a devout Catholic. From his earliest days, Michael's kindness, humor and steady sense of responsibility shone through – qualities that would define his life and the many hearts and souls he touched.
Michael was an active member of Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church in Ashtabula, and San Francisco de Asis Catholic Church in Flagstaff, Arizona where he volunteered and helped so many. Michael's faith was deep and anchored his life. He was truly a Prayer Warrior, as his prayers comforted and helped so many through so much.
A proud graduate of Ashtabula St. John High School, Michael went on to Kent State University before beginning a long and meaningful career dedicated to community service. Michael served as Urban Renewal Director of Ashtabula, later becoming the Executive Director of the Ashtabula Metropolitan Housing Authority and then the Flagstaff Housing Authority until his retirement. Through his leadership, compassion and vision, Michael worked tirelessly to strengthen the communities and improve the lives of countless families that he served. In recognition of his years of service and goodwill, Michael was awarded The Key to the City of Flagstaff in 2016 – a testament to his impact and lasting impression on the community he so deeply loved.
Michael's dedication to others extended beyond his work. He was a proud and active member of The Ashtabula Elks Club, The Flagstaff Lions Club and The Knights of Columbus. Those who knew Michael knew him as a rabid fan of "THE" Ohio State University Buckeyes, the Cleveland Browns and the Arizona Diamondbacks; and will fondly remember his delight in a good cigar and his nightly ritual of Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune. Michael had a warm smile for everyone, a sharp wit and an endless capacity for generosity and friendship. To know Michael was to truly love him.
Michael was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Joseph and Marguerite Gouhin, his sister, Teresa Ann Kane; and his brother Joseph Patrick Gouhin, II.
Michael is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Janet; his thankful children, Sean (Vanessa), Richard (Adel), and Erin (Peter Formato); his cherished grandchildren, Tori (Rylan), Michael Anthony II, Meaghan, Chloe, Sean Michael, Jr., and Harmon; his precious great-granddaughter, Audrey, and his loving sister, Iren Lemponen. Michael's family was his greatest joy, and he was theirs as he gave them a constant source of love, laughter and quiet strength.
Michael's legacy lives on through the kindness he shared, the lives he bettered and the family he loved beyond measure.
Papa, you will be deeply missed.
Visitation will be held Wednesday October 29th, 2025, 4:00 – 7:00 pm at Lozano's Flagstaff Mortuary, 2545 N. Fourth St, Flagstaff, AZ 86004.