Gaby Archambault

1984, photo courtesy of James Ozanich

Guy Gabriel Archambault
30 Jan 1950 - 27 Sep 1988

Clubs & Associations

Obituary

Guy (Gaby) Archambault
Jan. 30, 1950 - Sept. 27, 1988
After having fought a long and courageous fight against lung cancer, the gay community lost a wonderful human being. Guy (Gaby) Archambault passed away Tuesday, Sept. 27, in Palm Desert, California.

Known fondly to his many friends as Gaby, he left an unmistakable imprint of love and friendship on his many, many friends, as well as our gay community. Whether in leather riding his motorcycle with his lover of some ten years, Jerry Blecksmith, or in a jeweled evening gown riding in a limousine, Gaby was special to all who knew him.

Prior to leaving Montreal, Canada, Gaby then known as Guy, was a founder of the Falcon Motorcycle Club of Montreal. After moving from Montreal in May 1978 to join his future lifemate Jerry in San Diego, they joined forces and founded the California Cycle Men's Motorcycle Club of San Diego. Guy reigned for three years as First Lady to the club. In May of 1983, they chose the city of San Francisco to be their home.

They opened Gaby's Records on 9th Street and started becoming involved in the gay community/ Gaby gained notoriety last year when he ran for the title of Grand Duchess, and was subsequently elevated to Royal Crown Princess to the Grand Ducal Council of San Francisco. During this time the community had the opportunity to get a special person who was able to be involved in its many charitable fundraising needs, while maintaining standards beyond reproach.

In February, the Imperial Family honored Gaby by crowning him Dauphine IV. Gaby was very active in the square dance community, loving to dance at the Rawhide. He was a member of the Foggy City Dancers and Western Star Dancers.

While the love and friendship will be missed, we are thankful for the good times we shared. In addition to his lover of ten years, Jerry Blecksmith, Gaby leaves his loving parents, Francoise and Roger Archambault, loving sisters Renee and Lise, and his brother Yvon of Quebec, Canada. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, Oct. 11, at 7:30 p.m., at the Metropolitan Community Church, 50 Belcher st., San Francisco. Rev. Jim Sandmire will officiate a celebration of Gaby's life. A reception will immediately follow at the Galleon Bar and Restaurant in the Garden Room.

In lieu of flowers, Jerry requests that donations be made in Gaby's name to his favorite charity, Project Open Hand.

Gaby, even though you have passed from us who love you so, your heart will forever remain here in San Francisco, your home. Sweet peace, Gaby.^[1]