KINGSFORD – Fr. Joe O. Gouin will celebrate his 50th anniversary as a priest at the regular weekend Masses at American Martyrs on June 6-7.

Fr. Joe was born in Nahma on July 14, 1937, and lived in Isabella most of his young life. He entered the seminary after graduating from Nahma High School and was ordained to the priesthood on June 5, 1965, by Bishop Noa.

During his first seven years he was assigned as an assistant pastor at St. Patrick -St. Joseph Parish in Hancock, American Martyrs in Kingsford, and St. Mary Catholic Church in Norway.

In December 1971, he became pastor at St. Mary Catholic Church in Hermansville with the Mission of St. Mary’s Faithorn.

On July 13, 1972, Fr. Gouin was among the five priest assigned to Menominee for the consolidation of parishes. He was assigned as co-pastor with his classmate Fr. Norman Clisch at the newly formed parish of Resurrection. In July of 1974, he was appointed pastor at Holy Redeemer in Birch Creek and later was also pastor of St. Mary Church in Sobieski.

Fr. Joe was assigned pastor of American Martyrs in Kingsford in October 1990, where he continues to serve.

He was involved in several special ministries during his years as a priest. In 1967 he helped in developing the COR Weekend Retreat program for high school seniors. He stayed involved for about 10 years. Since returning to American Martyrs, he led the parish involvement in the Rio Bravo Mission in Mexico which helps feed poor families every Thursday throughout the year.

Fr. Joe is known for his love of fishing. To share one of his fish dinners is a real treat. He gave up deer hunting several years ago.

His favorite scripture passage is Mark 1:17: “Come after me and I will make you fishers of men.” He has a special love for the Apostle Peter, whom he choose as his Confirmation name.