Wilbur "Bill" Warren Gaut, Jr., 74, passed away on Friday, April 7, 2023, at Northwest Health-LaPorte, surrounded by loved ones.
Bill was born on August 12, 1948, in South Bend, IN, to Wilbur W. Gaut Sr. and Mary L. (Holcomb) Gaut.
Our own rockstar, "Little Willie" was known by many for the song California Sun with the Rivieras, and later as the lead of Little Willie and the Chevrons. A lover of music, he met his soul mate at a dance at the Civic Auditorium, and the greatest love story of all time began. On June 15, 1968, he married Mona Marcum, who preceded him in death on July 19, 2021. A loving and selfless man, he is survived by his daughters, Shannon (Rick) Penrod and Samantha (Dennis) Mahlka; 7 grandchildren, Mara Harris, Alrena Harris, Riley Tuerff, Brelynn Harris, Warren Anderson, Ricky Penrod, and Emerick Mahlka; and sisters, Connie (Jim) Wolff and Kathy Paschen. Relatives by the union of two people, he will be missed by stepbrothers and stepsisters, Greg Gouker, Wendy Sobasky, Tracie (Brian) Kitch, Jessie (David) Brasch; and so much more than an in-law, he is also survived by mom, Rena Johnson; siblings, Donald (Sandy) Marcum, Vickie (John) Kupres, Les (Emma) Marcum and Tommy (Vicki) Johnson; as well as many nieces and nephews. Lovingly known as "Pap", his loss will be felt by many. Mr. Safety now watches over us from Heaven.
Reunited with his soulmate, Bill was also preceded in death by his parents; stepmother, Norma Gaut; son, Wilbur Warren Gaut III; sister, Bonnie Griffin; and brothers, Rodney Marcum, and Jack Gouker.
Bill worked his entire construction career as a Teamster for StresCore, Inc., and retired in 2012. When not working, he enjoyed his time with family. Never with idle hands, Bill was always building or creating. A craftsman and artist, his creations are in the homes of many and will serve as a reminder of the great man he was. When not working on his own home, he was always a helping hand and willing to assist on any project, a case of beer long. He played any instrument he chose and his voice was so beautiful it could bring you to tears. The recordings will be treasured but will never be enough. It is but a small comfort that he now sings with a choir of angels.
Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte. A Celebration of Life will take place at Silver Palace Banquet Hall in La Porte, Saturday, June 10, 2023. Time to be announced at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the family c/o Samantha Mahlka, 2900 Monroe Street, La Porte, IN 46350 or to the donor's choice.
Condolences may be shared online at www.cutlercares.com.
