Peter J. Gamache, M.D., age 91, of Surprise, AZ, passed away at his residence on Sunday, February 9, 2020.
Peter was born December 6, 1928, in Escanaba, MI, the son of William and Eva (Carrier) Gamache. Peter grew up in Gladstone, MI, graduating from Gladstone High School in 1946. He enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1947, and was honorably discharged in 1950.
Peter attended Creighton University for undergraduate and medical school, graduating with his medical degree in May 1958. He moved to Florence, CO, where he lived for 48 years. He had a medical practice in Florence until his retirement in 1992. He then became Mayor of Florence for 6 years. He eventually moved to Surprise, AZ.
He was united in marriage to Sharon Ross January 17, 1998 in Colorado Springs, CO.
Peter enjoyed fishing and traveling. He had a lifelong love of learning and was an avid reader, especially history and astronomy. He had a profound Christian faith, and, was a member of the Roman Catholic Church.
Peter is survived by his wife, Sharon; his children, Dr. James A. (Dale) Gamache of Milford, IA; Alexia O. (Dave Menard) Smaller of Timnath, CO; Pierre A. Gamache of Canon City, CO; William T. (Connie) Gamache of Pueblo, CO; Celeste R. Gamache of Denver, CO; and step-daughter Catherine (Erik) Hensler of Waddell, AZ.
Peter is also survived by one sister-in-law, Belle Gamache of Gladstone, MI; 15 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to his parents, Peter is preceded in death by a daughter, Michelle Gamache, his 5 brothers and 4 sisters, and his first wife, Rose (Shuminsky) Gamache.
The family is planning a memorial service in Florence, CO, in early summer 2020. The funeral mass will occur in Gladstone, MI, in mid-summer 2020. Details on these services are forthcoming. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Gamache family.
Fr. Jamie Ziminski - Gladstone, MI
Dear Sharon,
On behalf of our parish family at All Saints in Gladstone, please know that you have our deepest sympathies. I remember you and Peter well from my early days here at All Saints. May God be with you during this difficult time. I promise my prayers for Peter, and for your family.
Fr. Jamie Ziminski
John Barr - Canon City, co
I had the honor and privilege of growing up with Dr. Gamache, a good friend,neighbor, and a Great Doctor. Went to school with his oldest son Jim–hey Jim. Dr Gamache was always there for me and our family, day or night. When I was 8 years old I had double pneumonia and was going into convulsions. My parents called Dr. Gamache at his home and he immediately came over, loaded me into his own personal vehicle and rushed me to the hospital. Thanks to this man I can talk about this incident today. Show me a Physician that would do that today. I will always cherish the great memories I have of this man. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of Dr. Gamaches family. May God Bless!!
Sincerely,
John Barr
George Collias - VENICE, FL
During the mid-1970s I was the anesthetist for the Florence, CO hospital. I often performed anesthesia for Peter’s (and Dr. Bugglewitz’s) surgeries. Peter and I had many discussions during those quiet intraoperative periods. I remember him as being a kind and fascinating conversationalist as well as an excellent physician. I’ve thought of him often and feel great sadness at his passing.
George Collias