Helping people, especially men, come into a saving relationship with Jesus and grow in their Christian faith has been at the heart of Major Bob Gauthier’s life. He not only devoted four decades to this mission as an officer, it has remained the focus of his days since his retirement in 2018.
Like a world class fisherman, his extraordinary patience, knowledge and skills have been honed over a lifetime and now bless individuals at the Jefferson, Mo., Corps, where he leads Bible study and prayer meetings, serves on the corps council and assists with the Christmas effort, and in the Midland Division where he serves as divisional men’s ministry secretary.
He has been able to resume the service he loves through extensive effort, including months of physical therapy, following a sudden, harrowing and life threatening illness which sidelined him in 2023. “In the last year and a half, I have seen him at some of his lowest and most vulnerable points. There were times when he couldn’t even speak; his only communication was through groans of pain. But after all he went through with his health, the first thing he would bring up, when he could finally speak again, is men’s ministry.
In particular, the men of this division and men’s camp,” said Major Justin Windell, who not only serves as Major Bob’s current corps officer but was discipled by him as a young man. For his dedication, exceptional service and continued sacrifice, Major Bob Gauthier was recognized as Midland Division Man of the Year in 2024. We can’t think of anyone more deserving and extend our heartfelt congratulations as well on this honor.