Susan L. Gauger, 103

Susan L. Gauger, 103, former Pontiac resident, died of natural causes on April 3, 2026, in Lima, Pennsylvania. 

She was born on July 22, 1922, in Franklinville, New York. She lived a long and meaningful life marked by faith in Christ, a servant's heart and loving care for the people God placed in her path. 

Sue was the beloved wife of the late Milton Gauger and a devoted mother to her sons, Rich Gauger and his wife, Janet; John and his wife, Amy; and Peter and his wife, Sherri. Her love for her children was characterized by a heart full of prayer and unconditional love. After the passing of Milton, she lived with her eldest son, Rich, in Georgia, Connecticut and Pennsylvania. 

Susan lived in Pontiac for many years, starting in 1978, in a house just before Boat Dock Road. She worked as the city clerk in Gainesville after working at The Antler. She was a faithful member of Frontier Baptist Church. 

Sue cherished her role as grandmother and great-grandmother. She was blessed with five grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren, each of whom brought joy to her life.

She enjoyed reading, oil painting and always took great pleasure in small things.

Sue loved Jesus, and her faith sometimes touched the sublime. When being told of the Woody Allen quote, “I’m not afraid of dying. I just don’t want to be there when it happens.” She immediately retorted, “Not me. I want to be there. I don’t want to miss the greatest experience of my life.” 

For the last two and a half years of her life, Sue lived at Fair Acres Geriatric Center in Lima, Pennsylvania. Her family is grateful for the professional and compassionate care of the staff as well as the loving kindness of the other residents.

In accordance with her wishes, instead of a formal funeral or memorial service, a private gathering of family members will take place at graveside where she will be buried next to her beloved husband on June 4, 2026. 

Local arrangements are under the direction of Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville.