| Notes |
Born:
- California Birth Index, 1905-1995
Name Rodger Joseph Gamache
Birth Date 14 Jan 1952
Gender Male
Mother's Maiden Name Rowe
Birth County Alameda
Died:
- With great sadness, The Gamache family announces the passing of Roger Gamache of Fort Jones, California on October 6th, 2024. Roger passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family after a long battle with Wegner?s disease and complications with Covid. He was a shining light to all who had the privilege of knowing him. Roger always said, ?Put family first!? His family was his strength and joy, as he was to them. While our hearts mourn the loss, we take comfort in knowing that he is no longer suffering or in pain.
Roger was born on January 14th, 1952, in Oakland, California to Rita and George Gamache. His family moved to Siskiyou County in the early 1960?s. Roger?s dedication and extreme work ethic began at the age of 13, where he carried chains and gas for a logging outfit. At 17, Roger was working at Olsen & Associates as a surveyor when he met and instantly fell in love with Janet Biegler, who would be his wife for 54 years. Roger and Janet were married on Feb 14th, 1970. They welcomed their first son Christopher later that year. Three years later their family was complete with their second son David. Often working multiple jobs, including work at Pacific Packing in Gazelle, Roger always took exceptional care of his family. In 1973, Roger had the opportunity to start at Pacific Power and Light and began his 38-year career. With a reputation second to none, he started as a Meter Reader and worked his way to a District Lineman.
Roger never turned down a call from work, ever. He was called out during holidays, family events, and often after an already long day of work. During his career, he made good friends with both his coworkers and the public he served. Roger?s mentor at work, the late John Kennedy, was like a father to him. While Dennis Gilbert, his coworker, was loved as a brother. There were so many coworkers who shared such a strong bond with him, he appreciated and cherished the relationships he made during his career.
Roger created many memories with his family by going swimming, fishing, and camping. He enjoyed horseback riding into beautiful mountain lakes with a pack mule in tow. He was most at home within the wilderness. Roger also loved to go ocean fishing for rockfish, halibut, and the treasured lingcod! He loved anything that he could do to spend time with his family. Though Roger wasn?t known for leaving the county, he had many adventures fishing in Alaska with his boys, and family vacations to Mexico.
Roger also loved his hot rods: a 1964 Chevrolet Malibu SS, and 1971 Chevrolet Chevelle SS. He brought them to life with a complete rebuild, down to the bolt. He loved the car show experiences that he shared with his wife, Janet.
Roger was a self-taught woodworker and cabinet maker. His attention to detail and patience beyond belief made him truly exceptional at his craft. He would spend countless hours studying and creating a desired wood project. Then in his humble mastery, would reveal beautiful awe-inspiring pieces such as gun cabinets, end tables, bedroom sets, and many other items. His final and best work was the bar that he crafted and installed in his home. Roger found immense joy in life by accomplishing something every day. His motto was to ?Do the job right, at the best of your ability, or don?t do it at all.? Roger maintained incredible dedication and was self-determined to continue working well after retirement. At a moment's notice, Roger was always there to offer a solution, help a neighbor or friend, and assist in any way possible.
Roger was preceded in death by his Father George Gamache, and his Granddaughter Katrina Gamache. He is survived by his Wife Janet Gamache, Sons Chris Gamache (Caity) and Dave Gamache (Maria), Mother Rita Griffith, Brothers Allen Gamache (Ginny) and Dave Gamache (Michelle), Sisters Gail Wolford, Suzie Morris (Al), Tammy Paterson (Walt), and Donna Dunn (Mike), Granddaughters Christy Barajas (Jose), Victoria Gentry (Chris), Marissa Maxwell, Elizabeth Felton (Kyle), Heather Gamache, and Juliana Gamache, Grandson Jefferson Gamache, Great Granddaughters Mykenzi Filice, Scarlett Felton, and Eve Gentry, and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Your light will forever shine brightly in our hearts. The loss of your companionship, guidance, and love leaves a void in each of us that is indescribable. The memories you gave and the lessons you taught will be a constant reminder of how lucky we are to have been a part of your life. We love you endlessly.
The family is hosting a Celebration of Life, with graveside services at the Fort Jones Cemetery, on November 2nd at 2:00 p.m. A reception will follow at Roger and Janet?s home. Please bring your memories and potluck dishes to share. In lieu of flowers, to honor Roger, we ask that you take a family member fishing, make a memory, and always ?Put family first!?
Posted online on October 17, 2024
Published in Siskiyou Daily News
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1952 - 2024 (72 years)
