Gilbert Francis Couillard

Gilbert Francis Couillard, age 71, of Saginaw died Wednesday, September 6, 2017, at Caretel Rehab, where he was recuperating from several recent health issues. Gil was a life-long resident of Saginaw, graduating from Saginaw High School in 1964. From there he attended Central Michigan University where he earned a degree in education. Gil retired in 2009 from a 40-year career in special education with the Saginaw Public School District, where he spent his teaching years at Houghton Elementary School. He was a favorite of both students and faculty and known as a fierce champion for the kids he taught and loved. He was an active member of the Saginaw Education Association, serving on the Executive Board for several years and a member of the Democratic Party. Throughout his life, Gil was concerned with issues of social justice and was a strong advocate for fairness and equity for the disadvantaged. He was a spirited debater, always willing to share his controversial views on politics, including writing numerous letters to the editor. In retirement, he was a loving and devoted grandfather to his six grandchildren in addition to volunteering at Habitat for Humanity. He was also a frequent donor to the Saginaw Blood Bank. He is survived by his wife, Kathy; daughters, Bridget (James) Orth and Katie (Charles) Megan; sister, Yvonne (William) Root and brother, Borden (Debra) Couillard; grandchildren, Mary Frances, Winifred, and Burke Orth and Cort, Cecilia, and Louie Megan. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Francis Couillard and son, Brian Couillard. In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial liturgy will take place at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 16, 2017 at Saint Dominic Catholic Parish at Saint Stephen Church, 2711 Mackinaw St. Fr. James Bessert will officiate. Friends may visit with the family from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the memorial liturgy. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a remembrance contribution to Saginaw Promise, a scholarship program available to students graduating from the Saginaw school district. Tax deductible donations can be made payable to the Saginaw Community Foundation at One Tuscola Street, Suite 100, Saginaw, MI 48607. Please note "Saginaw Promise Zone Fund/G.Couillard Memorial." www.saginawfoundation.org

Funeral Home:
W. L. Case and Company Mackinaw Funeral Chapel
4480 Mackinaw Road
Saginaw, MI
US 48603