John Arthur Gau

Born on December 19, 1940, in Utica, N.Y., John was the eldest of two sons born to the late Milton and Dorothy (Lutz) Gau. He was raised and educated in New Hartford, where he graduated from New Hartford High School in the Class of 1958.

John devoted 32 years of his career to the Postal Service, retiring in 1992 as the Postmaster of Bible School Park, N.Y. His career also included various roles such as a school bus driver, city bus driver for Oneonta, N.Y., and positions at Kroger, Publix, Lowe’s, and Home Depot. Regardless of his job, John was well-loved by all he served and worked with.

An avid golfer, Boston Red Sox fan, and gardener, John spent much of his free time in the great outdoors, cultivating his personal garden and creating beautiful outdoor spaces. His daily routine included a 4-mile walk with his beloved dog, Dolly. John’s remarkable ability to connect with new friends in his neighborhood, at the store, and elsewhere reflected his vibrant spirit and zest for life. His legacy of living fully and appreciating the world’s beauty continues to inspire those who knew him.

John is survived by his wife, Colleen Anne (O’Mara) Gau, and his children: daughter Gail M. Miller and husband Glenn; sons Dale R. Gau and wife Tammy, Kenneth E. Gau and wife Jackie, and Lance J. Gau. He is also survived by his four grandchildren: Ashley (Bodine) Delcambre, Abby Miller, Matthew Graeft, and Christopher Gau, as well as great-grandchildren Brigit, Bowen, Carter, and Luke.

Through his marriage to Colleen, John embraced a large and loving extended family, including seven stepchildren—Patricia, Matthew, Denise, Gregory, Stephanie, Sharon, and Colleen—sixteen grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. John’s love and warmth extended to every member of this expansive family, and his affection was returned in kind.

John was predeceased by his brother Milton J. (Jim) Gau, his son Randall (Randy) Gau, and his grandson Jonathan Earle Bodine.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Spry Funeral Home of Huntsville. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to St Jude Children's Hospital or Downtown Rescue Mission of Huntsville. Condolences may be shared with the family at the Spry Funeral Home website.

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