Donald James Gauthier DDS

1935 - 2024

Donald James Gauthier DDS, 88, passed away on July 3, 2024, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Born on September 11, 1935, in Baton Rouge, he led a life marked by dedication to his family, his country, and his community. He was surrounded by his most loving and caring wife of 37 years Margie Gauthier and his devoted daughter Julie and son David Gauthier. Donald attended Catholic High School and earned his undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University before completing his dental studies at Loyola University Dental School in New Orleans. His service to the nation was distinguished. As an Army Major, Donald was stationed at Schofield Barracks in Hawaii before being drafted to Vietnam in 1968. In Vietnam, he ran a dental clinic at Duc Pho, where his innovative approaches significantly improved the comfort and care of his fellow soldiers. His bravery and dedication earned him the Bronze Star in 1969. After his military service, Donald returned to Louisiana, where he opened his own dental practice in Covington. He later pursued his passion for cooking by opening Gauthier's Restaurant in Perdido Key, Florida, which he operated with his wife for nine years before returning to Baton Rouge to continue his dental practice. Known for his sense of humor and love for cooking, Donald was often the life of the party, always ready to share a laugh or a new recipe. His grandchildren, who affectionately called him "Pots," will fondly remember his cookouts and gatherings at home, the restaurant and along the Bogue Falaya River. Donald is survived by his wife Marjorie (Margie Gauthier); children, David Gauthier (Noel) and Julie Gauthier (Bill Kiermaier) and son in law, Brad Johnson; stepsons, Ben Beychok (Lisa) and Michael Beychok (Rochelle); sister-in-law, Margo Fletcher Gauthier; grandchildren, John Lebien, Bradley, Matthew, Brooke, Sarah, and Joshua Beychok and great grandchildren Amelia and Beau Beychok, nieces, nephews and a host of long-time friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leon Sumpter Gauthier and Winnie LaBorde Gauthier; siblings, Gerry Gauthier Oxford, Owen Anthony Gauthier, and Nell Gauthier Fetzer; and daughter, Miriam "Mimi" Gauthier. As per his wishes, there will be no public service. The family will honor his life privately.