Donavon Benjamin Gaudett

Donavon Benjamin Gaudett of Juniata Twp., age 76, passed away on the morning of Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at his home. He was born in Flint on December 3, 1949, the son of the late Frank and Jean (Towns) Gaudett. Don graduated from Caro High School with the class of 1969 and then went on to proudly serve in the United States Air Force for four years. He married the love of his life, the former Pattie Ann TerBush, on April 13, 1974 at St. Paul Lutheran Church. Their marriage was blessed with nearly fifty-two years and many cherished memories.

Don spent many years working at Draper Automotive, retiring in 2007 as Shop Foreman. Never one to sit still for long, he went on to work for the county for several more years. Don was a devoted member of St. Paul Lutheran Church and the Caro VFW. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing softball in the church league and bowling. He later found joy in tending his garden, playing the lottery, and relaxing while watching television. Above all else, Don cherished time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren. Don will forever be remembered for his great sense of humor, his strong work ethic, an attribute he instilled in both of his children, and his deep love for his family.

Don leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife, Pattie; children, Shawn (Kyle) Jones and Chris (Ashley) Gaudett; grandchildren, Morgan and Sydney Jones and Lucas and Parker Gaudett; brother-in-law, Robert TerBush; nieces, Megan TerBush and Paige Prater. In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his brothers, Stuart Gaudett and Harold Gaudett and sister-in-law, Mary TerBush.

Don’s memorial service will be on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Caro with Rev. Richard Boshoven officiating. The family will be present to receive visitors on Monday, February 16, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Ransford Funeral Home in Caro and again on Tuesday, at church, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of his service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to St. Paul Lutheran Church or a charity of the donor’s choice.