Melvyn "Mezzie" Douglas Gutzman

GUTZMAN, Melvyn Douglas, “Mezzie” as he was fondly known, passed away on Tuesday, September 12, 2023 in his 85^th year.

Mel was predeceased by his loving wife Helen (nee Carnegie), mother Lena (nee Mohns), father Alfred and brothers Ellard & Donnie. Mel is survived by his children Cindi Chisholm (Tom), Lee Brown (Tony) & Tim Gutzman; and sisters-in-law Linda Gutzman-Bunn & Ann Purdon (Garf).  Wonderful memories cherished by his grandsons Duncan & Andrew (Nicole) and granddaughter Avery. 

Mezzie grew up in Petawawa, he was your typical Valley lad, who loved the outdoors. He spent many a day camping, fishing, hunting and portaging on canoe trips in Algonquin Park with his old gang: Mike, Roy, Leon, Joe, Lloyd and his brother Donnie.  He was accompanied on these adventures by Tim, along with the gang’s kids.  He loved to share his favourite memories with his kids and grandkids, starting them with “true story”. Mel was also a sports enthusiast. He enjoyed playing hockey, but will mostly be remembered for his days as a catcher in the North Renfrew Leaugue, playing with The Chalk River Railmen and Petawawa Indians.  He loved his Blue Jays, watching them faithfully, as well as his beloved Sens, even though deep down he was still a Maple Leafs fan!

Mel worked his entire career as AECL in Chalk River.  He and Helen built a house on John Street in Petawawa, where they raised their three children.  Later on, they built their dream home on Hazley Bay, where he and Helen love to listen to the loons in the summer.  That was also a favourite spot for the grandkids when Grandpa/Poppa would take them fishing, boating and turtle hunting.  Mel loved holidays, but nothing as much as birthdays. We were all reminded weeks in advance of his special day on August 19^th and were lucky to be able to celebrate his 84^th with him a few weeks back.

The last few years of Dad’s life were spent at Pinewood in Pembroke. A special thanks to the staff and residents there, who were always cheerful and made him part of their family.  A special thanks to the staff on the 3^rd Floor at Pembroke Regional Hospital, their care and support was deeply appreciated.  We were thankful for the visits from Pastor Albert and Pastor Tim who offered their prayers and spiritual support.  Dad died peacefully surrounded by his loving family. 

Mel will be dearly missed by his children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, friends and his special friend Bonnie. 

As requested by Mel, there will be no visitation.  Cremation has taken place. An outdoor service will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery, Black Bay Rd., Petawawa on Saturday, September 16, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. As an expression of sympathy, donation to CNIB, CHEO or Ottawa Heart Institute would be greatly appreciated.  Arrangements entrusted to Malcolm, Deavitt & Binhammer Funeral Home, Pembroke.